Iran Press/Europe: Speaking on Tuesday, Lukashenko revealed that Belarus has deployed several nuclear warheads, dismissing claims that this was a mere joke or exaggeration. "I have stationed nuclear warheads in Belarus. Several dozen warheads," he stated. He further emphasized that despite skepticism from critics, the deployment was indeed carried out, adding, "They did not pay attention to how we brought them here."
Lukashenko also drew attention to the significance of the nuclear button, stating that since the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, no one had used nuclear weapons, not even the leading powers, let alone Belarus.
In addition, the Belarusian president addressed the upcoming deployment of non-nuclear Russian "Orshernik" missile systems on Belarusian soil. He acknowledged the responsibility involved in deploying such powerful weapons.
Russia-Belarus Security Agreement and Nuclear Weapon Deployment
This statement comes in the context of an agreement between Russia and Belarus, where Russia has pledged to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus at Minsk’s request. The move mirrors the long-standing presence of U.S. nuclear weapons in allied nations. Russia has provided Belarus with Iskander missile systems capable of carrying nuclear warheads and has assisted Belarus in re-equipping its aircraft to carry specialized weapons.
Lukashenko previously mentioned that Russia had deployed dozens of nuclear warheads in Belarus by late April 2024. While this marks a significant development in Belarus's military capabilities, the country insists that it has not been "occupied" by Russia. Lukashenko stated, "Many are shouting, 'Russia has occupied this place.' No, it is not like that."
In December 2023, the two leaders, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, signed a new security agreement in Minsk. The treaty outlines mutual commitments to defend each other, protect sovereignty, independence, and constitutional order, and ensure territorial integrity and inviolability, utilizing all available military resources.
The agreement also includes the establishment of an integrated air defense system and the creation of a joint regional force. One of the critical elements discussed was the use of tactical nuclear weapons, which had already been deployed in Belarus by 2023. Under the agreement, Russia will also deploy a new Russian missile system, the Orshernik, to Belarus by the second half of 2025. Although the system will remain part of Russia's strategic missile forces, Belarus will have the right to independently designate potential targets for destruction.
Orshernik Missile and Strategic Military Power
In another significant development, Russia had announced the successful test of its Orshernik missile system in December 2023. Russian officials highlighted its high precision and non-nuclear capabilities. President Putin emphasized that although the Orshernik could theoretically have the power of nuclear weapons if used in large-scale attacks, it is not classified as a weapon of mass destruction. The missile, which reaches temperatures of up to 4,000 degrees Celsius, is capable of striking highly protected underground facilities.
Putin further elaborated on the missile’s destructive potential, stating that it could disintegrate anything in the center of its blast into fundamental particles, turning it to dust. He reiterated that while the Orshernik is not a nuclear weapon, it could match nuclear weapons in power in certain circumstances.
Regional Implications and Future Prospects
The developments in Belarus and Russia’s growing military collaboration have raised concerns in Europe and beyond. The deployment of nuclear and high-precision missile systems could alter the balance of power in Eastern Europe and complicate security dynamics. As the situation continues to evolve, both countries remain firm in their commitment to mutual defense and security, despite international scrutiny and condemnation.
206
Read More:
Russia: Ukraine's Involvement in Syrian Tensions Is Clear
