Belarus on Tuesday launched drills involving missiles and warplanes capable of carrying tactical nuclear weapons, which close ally Russia has deployed there amid tensions with the West over Ukraine.
The Belarusian maneuvers began a day after Russia announced plans to hold similar drills simulating the use of battlefield nuclear weapons in what it cast as a response to statements by Western officials signaling possibly deeper involvement in the war in Ukraine. It was the first time such an exercise had been publicly announced by Moscow.
Belarus’ Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin said a unit of Iskander short-range missiles and a squadron of Su-25 fighter jets will take part in the drills.
The maneuvers began as Russian President Vladimir Putin was inaugurated to a fifth term on Tuesday, vowing to ensure Russia’s security.
Last year, Russia moved some of its tactical nuclear weapons into Belarus, which also borders Ukraine and NATO members Poland, Latvia and Lithuania. Belarus’ authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko has relied on close ties with Russia and provided his country as a staging ground for the war in Ukraine.
Chinese bank unveils green bond in London
Apps simplify expense steps for foreign users
Nyingchi apples' first export to Nepal
People enjoy Labor Day holiday across China
Support workshops facilitate employment for workers at their doorsteps
Xi Sends Congratulatory Letter to Event Marking 70th Anniversary of 'Icebreaking Mission' in China
Sunny Sanya will see a luxury mega complex built
Xi Focus: China Pursues Development for People's Well
Floriade Expo 2022 opens in Almere, the Netherlands
Gaps found in battle against climate crisis
Highlights of Beijing 2022 Paralymic Torch Relay and Flame Lighting Ceremony