Belarus and Russia's Nuclear Drills: A Strategic Power Play

In a significant military collaboration, Belarus announced the initiation of joint exercises with Russia to practice the handling and potential use of nuclear weapons hosted on Belarusian territory. These drills involve missile units and warplanes, emphasizing the covert movement of forces across vast distances.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who has long maintained an iron grip over the nation, permitted the deployment of these Russian tactical nuclear weapons. In December, Russia's intermediate-range nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile system became active in Belarus, a strategic region bordering Ukraine and NATO allies. Importantly, Moscow retains control of the nuclear arms, but allows Belarus to select targets if necessary.

The exercises have drawn criticism from opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who argues that Belarus has become a target due to these deployments. She asserts that only a free Belarus could contribute to European security without resorting to threats. Meanwhile, Russia continues to advance its military capabilities, using similar conventional weapons strategically in Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies.)