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Russia has reportedly refused to rule out using nuclear weapons in its fight against ISIS .

President Vladimir Putin eluded to the stance during an interview yesterday after the country’s Defence Minister confirmed the first ever cruise missiles strikes launched from a submarine in the Caspian Sea had successfully struck targets in Raqqa.

During the encounter broadcast on state television Sergei Shoigu said Calibre missiles were launched from the Rostov-on-Don submarine in the Mediterranean.

(Image: Reuters)

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Mr Putin then added that the missiles can be equipped with both conventional and nuclear warheads “which, I hope, will never be needed”, he said.

His warning came as Russia stepped up its barrage on Syrian rebels with the submarine strikes and bombing raids in the air.

Mr Shoigu said “300 targets of different kinds” had been hit in the past three days as the assault on the terror cell continued from both the sea and sky.

(Image: Barcroft)

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He added: ‘The Calibre cruise missile once again showed its effectiveness over long distances.’

It is thought the missiles can travel as far as 1,500 miles at low altitude to attack enemy strongholds.

Two terrorist strongholds around Raqqa, the de facto Syrian capital of the jihadist group were among targets destroyed as well as oil infrastructure, ammunition depots and a mine-making factory.