Russia Begins Placing Tactical Nuclear Weapons in Belarus

Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko pose for a photo after their meeting in Minsk, Belarus, on Monday, December 11, 2018. (AP PHOTO/ANDREY STASEVICH)

The recent development of Russia's deployment of nuclear weapons in Belarus has raised concerns among global observers. President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus revealed on Thursday, May 25, 2023, that Russia has initiated the transfer of nuclear weapons to his country. This move, previously announced by President Vladimir Putin of Russia in March, has faced criticism from Western nations. Putin's announcement at that time sparked fears of escalating nuclear conflict.

As of now, there have been no recent comments from Russia regarding the shipment of nuclear weapons to Belarus. "The transfer of nuclear ammunition has begun," Lukashenko told reporters during his visit to Moscow, as quoted by the AFP news agency. Lukashenko has allowed his territory, which borders Ukraine as well as European Union (EU) and NATO members Poland and Lithuania, to serve as a launchpad for potential Russian attacks on Ukraine. Lukashenko stated that Putin informed him on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, that he had signed the decision on the transfer of tactical nuclear weapons.

Not only endangers the people of Belarus

Opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya of Belarus warned on Thursday that the placement of Russian nuclear weapons in Belarus would not only endanger the lives of the Belarusian people but also pose a new threat to Ukraine and the whole of Europe.

"It will make Belarus a hostage to Russia's imperial ambitions," Tikhanovskaya added. In April, Belarusian forces were allegedly seen training for the use of Russian nuclear-capable missile systems.

Meanwhile, the United States has declared its intention to monitor these developments closely. Regarding the placement of Russian tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre described both countries' actions as irresponsible and provocative.

"We have not seen any reason to adjust our own nuclear posture or any indication that Russia is prepared to use nuclear weapons from Belarus," stated Karine Jean-Pierre. Tactical nuclear weapons themselves are devastating weapons of warfare. However, tactical nuclear weapons yield smaller results compared to long-range strategic weapons.

The Concerns Surrounding Russia's Placement of Tactical Nuclear Weapons in Belarus

In a move that has sparked widespread concern, Russia has recently begun deploying tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus confirmed on Thursday, May 25, 2023, that Russia has initiated the transfer of nuclear weapons to his country. This decision, announced by President Vladimir Putin of Russia back in March, has faced strong criticism from Western countries due to the potential escalation of nuclear conflict it may bring.

As of now, there have been no recent comments from Russia regarding the shipment of nuclear weapons to Belarus. Lukashenko revealed this development during his visit to Moscow, stating, "The transfer of nuclear ammunition has begun," as quoted by the AFP news agency. Lukashenko has allowed his country, which shares borders with Ukraine, as well as EU and NATO member states Poland and Lithuania, to serve as a potential launching ground for Russian attacks on Ukraine. Lukashenko further revealed that Putin informed him on Wednesday, May 24, 2023, about the decision to transfer tactical nuclear weapons.

Expanding Threats beyond Belarus

Opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya of Belarus issued a warning on Thursday, emphasizing that the placement of Russian nuclear weapons in Belarus poses not only a threat to the lives of Belarusian citizens but also to Ukraine and the entire European continent.

"This will effectively turn Belarus into a hostage to Russia's imperial ambitions," Tikhanovskaya added. Reports have suggested that Belarusian forces have already started training with Russian nuclear-capable missile systems, further fueling concerns.

Meanwhile, the United States has declared its intention to closely monitor these developments. Responding to the placement of

 Russian tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, Karine Jean-Pierre, the White House Press Secretary, criticized the actions of both countries, describing them as irresponsible and provocative.

"We see no reason to adjust our own nuclear posture or any indication that Russia is ready to utilize nuclear weapons from Belarus," stated Karine Jean-Pierre. Tactical nuclear weapons possess destructive capabilities on the battlefield. However, it is important to note that their yield is comparatively smaller than that of long-range strategic weapons.