Belarus leader says Russian nuclear weapons shipments are completed, raising concern in the region

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The Belarusian President, Alexander Lukashenko, announced on Monday that Russia has concluded its deliveries of tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus. This development has raised significant concerns, particularly in neighboring Poland and the wider region.

During a meeting of a Moscow-led economic bloc held in St. Petersburg, President Lukashenko disclosed that these shipments were finalized in October. However, he did not divulge specific details regarding the quantity of weapons dispatched or their precise deployment locations.

Tactical nuclear weapons are designed for battlefield use and possess relatively short-range capabilities with lower yields when compared to the more potent nuclear warheads found on long-range missiles. Russia has affirmed its intention to retain control over the tactical nuclear weapons supplied to Belarus.

President Lukashenko has stated that the presence of Russian nuclear weapons in Belarus serves as a deterrent against potential aggression from Poland, a member of NATO. Poland has been extending military, humanitarian, and political support to its neighbor, Ukraine, in its ongoing struggle against Russia’s invasion. Poland is also actively participating in international sanctions targeting Russia and Belarus.

It is worth noting that while Russian troops stationed in Belarus were involved in the initial stages of the war by invading Ukraine from the north, there is no confirmation of Belarusian forces participating in these actions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about nuclear weapons shipments

More about nuclear weapons shipments

• Belarus President’s Announcement
• Details on Completion Date
• Information on Tactical Nuclear Weapons
• Russia’s Control over Weapons
• Poland’s Involvement and Support to Ukraine
• Belarusian Forces in the Invasion