Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered officials Wednesday to submit proposals to possibly resume nuclear tests, days after President Trump's surprise directive for the U.S. to end its moratorium on the practice.

Why it matters: Russia boasts the world's biggest nuclear stockpile, and has increasingly threatened to use it as its war in Ukraine has dragged on. • The White House and State Department did not immediately respond to Axios' request for comment on Putin's directive.

Driving the news: Putin reaffirmed that if the U.S. conducted such tests, Russia would respond, multiple outlets reported Wednesday. • He instructed the foreign and defense ministries to collect additional information and make proposals over the possible start of nuclear weapons tests. • Defense Minister And

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