Belarus has launched military drills involving units trained to use nuclear weapons, the country’s Defense Ministry said.
The exercises, conducted together with Russian forces, will include practicing the transport of nuclear warheads, preparing them for possible use, and coordinating operations between different military units.
The drills will also test the ability of troops to operate from temporary and unprepared locations across Belarus.
Officials said the main focus will be on secretly moving troops, quickly deploying forces over long distances, and preparing missile and aircraft systems capable of carrying nuclear weapons.
The drills are being conducted under the command of the Chief of the General Staff of the Belarusian Armed Forces, who also serves as the First Deputy Defense Minister.
Belarus described the exercises as ‘planned activities’ carried out within the framework of the Russia-Belarus Union State. Officials in Minsk also claimed that the drills are “not directed against third countries” and “do not pose a threat to regional security.”
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Russia and Belarus have deepened their nuclear cooperation since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In May 2023, Moscow announced that tactical nuclear weapons would be stationed in Belarus.
Belarusian forces have also received upgraded aircraft and Iskander missile systems that can carry nuclear warheads.
In earlier years, Belarusian forces had already trained with Russian units on the possible use of tactical nuclear weapons. These exercises included operating Iskander missile systems and military aircraft.
On May 25, Russia and Belarus agreed on the procedures for deploying Russian tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. The two sides also signed documents setting out the rules for where and how these weapons would be stationed in Belarus.
Under the agreement, Moscow will retain control over these weapons and any decisions regarding their use.
Militarnyi previously reported that the Belarusian Polonez missile system could be equipped with a nuclear warhead. Russian specialists are currently working on this development.
