Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenka announced that Belarus is preparing to host modern Russian ballistic missiles, specifically the “Oreshnik” missile system, by the end of 2023. In a statement made on Wednesday, he confirmed that the first positions for these advanced weapons are already being established on Belarusian territory.
Lukashenka emphasized that the deployment of the “Oreshnik” missile system is part of broader efforts to bolster Belarus’s military capabilities and ensure its security amid regional tensions. He reiterated Belarus’s close military cooperation with Russia, emphasizing that the move is in line with joint strategic interests.
The announcement has raised concerns among neighboring countries and Western nations, which view it as a potential escalation of military activity in Eastern Europe. NATO officials have called for transparency and urged constructive dialogue to address regional security issues.
Moscow has not yet issued an official comment on Lukashenka’s statement. However, the development underscores the deepening military ties between Belarus and Russia, raising questions about the future security dynamics in the region as both governments continue to strengthen their defensive postures.