Lukashenko escalates tensions with nuclear threats on Ukraine border

Aleksander Lukashenko claims that Belarus has deployed Iskander missile systems along the border with Ukraine. This is allegedly a response to the "increased activity of the Ukrainian military in the border region."

Many of the reports shared by Russian media and government representatives are likely not true. Such claims might be part of an information war by the Russian Federation.

On Wednesday, July 3, in connection with the 80th anniversary of Belarus's liberation from Nazi invaders, Aleksander Lukashenko decided to boast about the nuclear arsenal that he supposedly received from Russia. He warned Ukraine that he had deployed his nuclear potential along the border of both countries.

This is connected with - as he claims - increased activity of the Ukrainian military at the Belarusian border. According to the dictator, his border guards and the military have already intercepted "dozens" of drones from the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which carried "the latest explosives" intended to destroy objects on Russian territory.

Polonaise and Iskander missile systems have been positioned. It is also known what ammunition they have. Additionally, the air defence forces of Belarus and Russia are in a state of high combat readiness – said Lukashenko.

Reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin provided the Lukashenko regime with Iskander missiles appeared as early as 2022. Putin also announced the construction of storage facilities for tactical nuclear weapons on the ally's territory and the adaptation of Belarusian military aircraft for their use.

In April 2024, the Belarusian authorities updated their military doctrine. Russia is mentioned in this document as Belarus's strategic ally. Any use of military force against either of the two countries will be met with "retaliation using all forces and means."

Lukashenko also declared that in the case of "further provocations," Belarus might directly join the war in Ukraine and open a new front on the border of both countries.

What, do we need to open another 1,500 kilometres of front? Yes, it won’t be easy for us to secure this border with the Russians, but it will be even harder for the Ukrainians to maintain this border - said the dictator.

Since the beginning of the war, Aleksander Lukashenko's regime has supported the actions of the Russian military. However, it has not actively joined the war, and Russian troops have not attacked from the Belarusian side. Nevertheless, Ukrainians are securing the border with Belarus in case of a potential strike. Defence lines are being expanded, and border areas are being mined.