Belarus dismisses concerns as it launches joint nuclear drills with Russia

Belarus has announced joint military exercises with Russia focused on the combat use of nuclear weapons. The Belarusian Ministry of Defence stated the drills are a planned event, not directed at any specific third party, and aim to test readiness and practice combat missions from unprepared areas. This announcement has drawn strong concern from Ukraine and NATO allies. Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Russia of using Belarus as a "nuclear staging ground" and urged Western allies to tighten sanctions against both Moscow and Minsk. Russian tactical nuclear weapons were previously stationed in Belarus at the request of President Alexander Lukashenko, who views them as a security measure against perceived NATO threats.

Belarus announced that its armed forces have commenced training exercises involving Russian nuclear weapons. This development, which began on Monday, has drawn strong condemnation from Ukraine. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko agreed in 2023 to host Russian tactical nuclear missiles, though Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated Moscow retains control over their deployment. The Belarusian Defence Ministry indicated that the training will involve practicing the delivery and preparation for use of nuclear munitions in cooperation with Russia. Belarus claims the exercises are not directed at any other nation and do not present regional security threats.