Vladimir Putin, at the start of the first joint nuclear exercise between Russia and Belarus, described nuclear weapons as the main guarantor of Russia’s security and a factor of strategic deterrence against global threats. On Thursday, May 21, Putin said that nuclear drills are essential for maintaining the global balance of power.
Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko, the presidents of Russia and Belarus, held the first joint exercise of the two countries’ strategic and tactical nuclear forces via video link on Thursday, May 21.
The exercise reviewed coordination and interaction in the use of nuclear weapons, including those deployed on Belarusian territory. It also involved the live launch of ballistic and cruise missiles. Putin stated that nuclear weapons are the ultimate guarantor of the national sovereignty and security of the “Union State” (Russia and Belarus).
Lukashenko also said that Belarus’s military facilities are in good condition and that all equipment in the eastern and central parts of the country is fully operational. He added that this was the first joint exercise attended by the two presidents.
Previously, the general staffs and defense ministers of both countries conducted such exercises every three months without the participation of the presidents.
Lukashenko emphasized that neither side threatens anyone, but if necessary, they would use their weapons to protect their shared territory.
This joint exercise follows the 2023 strategic agreement between Moscow and Minsk. That year, Russia deployed part of its tactical nuclear warheads on the territory of another country (Belarus) for the first time since the collapse of the Soviet Union, in order to create a new defensive front against NATO.
Russia and Belarus signed a treaty in 1999 to form a close alliance system known as the “Union State.” The treaty integrates the two countries in economic, military, and foreign policy matters while preserving their political independence. Since the start of the war in Ukraine, this military alliance has reached its peak.
The nuclear exercise is taking place amid the most unprecedented tensions between Russia and the West since the Cold War. Moscow has repeatedly warned NATO member states that their direct or military involvement in the Ukraine war, and allowing Kyiv to strike deep inside Russian territory, could lead to the risk of a direct nuclear confrontation.
Writer:Salima Hakimi
