Belarus begins tactical nuclear exercises under Russian umbrella

Belarus has been conducting broad military exercises for several days, including the use of tactical nuclear weapons. "They are purely defensive in nature," says Lukashenko, indicating that provocations are unlikely. These exercises are among the first of their kind since Belarus came under the Russian "nuclear umbrella."

The readiness of transportation means - SU-25 attack aircraft and Iskander and Polonez missiles - is being verified. The focus is on the capability of deploying missile systems to specific locations without engaging nuclear units. From reports available yesterday, it was evident that the aircraft were operational, and the Iskanders were on the move. - Paweł Podwig, a Senior Researcher at the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research, reassured in an interview with the Mediazona portal.

The expert also highlighted that, according to Lukashenko, the Belarusian army's participation in these exercises is merely symbolic. Podwig asserts that the entire nuclear arsenal on this territory will be controlled by unit 12 of the Main Directorate of the Russian Ministry of Defense. Belarusian troops will transport nuclear ammunition to pre-determined locations.

"The Belarusian leader tends to portray as though he holds all the initiative. It's difficult to pinpoint who is directing what and from where, but one should approach such statements with caution," the expert added.

Podwig mentioned that such exercises typically do not involve actual nuclear ammunition. However, he also stated that in the case of Belarus, it's challenging to dismiss the possibility outright. Nonetheless, it's assumed that these weapons are securely stored.