Russia has declared that it is fully prepared to conduct nuclear tests at its remote Arctic facility on the Novaya Zemlya archipelago, a site that has been dormant since 1990. Rear Admiral Andrei Sinitsyn, director of the facility, stated that laboratories and personnel are ready to commence testing immediately if ordered by President Vladimir Putin. This announcement follows rising tensions as Ukraine seeks Western support for long-range missile capabilities, which Russia perceives as a direct threat. The potential resumption of nuclear testing by Russia could reignite a nuclear arms race, with concerns from analysts and Western nations about the implications of such a move. Additionally, traces of radioactive material have been detected near Norway's border with Russia, heightening fears of nuclear activity. The situation remains under close surveillance by Western intelligence, indicating significant international concern over Russia's nuclear ambitions.