Belarus begins exercise for the use of tactical nuclear weapons

(Patria) - Belarus yesterday began an exercise of missile units and Air Force units for the use of tactical nuclear weapons.

This weapon was deployed in Belarus by its close ally Russia as part of the escalation of its stance towards the West due to Russia's war against Ukraine.

Russian tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus are under Russian military control.

Belarusian Minister of Defence Viktor Khrenin said that the exercise involves units with short-range "Iskander" missiles and a squadron of Su-25 fighter jets.

The exercise began on the day of the inauguration of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who promised in his speech to ensure Russia's security.

The deployment of Russian tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus allows for a quick and easy Russian attack on Ukraine and extends Russia's reach to several NATO countries.

Russia announced on Monday the holding of a similar exercise on its territory, simulating the use of nuclear weapons.

As stated in Moscow, this exercise is a response to statements by Western officials indicating possible greater involvement of the West in the war in Ukraine.

Moscow has never announced such exercises before.

Unlike intercontinental ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads that can destroy entire cities, tactical nuclear weapons are intended for use against troops on the battlefield and are less powerful. These weapons include bombs, warheads for short-range missiles, and artillery ammunition.