Russia has announced the delivery of nuclear munitions to Belarus
This has been reported by the Russian Ministry of Defence.
In particular, the ministry announced the “rehearsal” of receiving special munitions for the Iskander-M missile system, equipping the launchers with them, and covertly moving to the “designated deployment area” in preparation for missile launches.
Russian nuclear exercises: what is known
As a reminder, Russia has begun nuclear exercises involving the Strategic Missile Forces, the Pacific Fleet and the Northern Fleet. They are taking place from 19 to 21 May.
Over 200 missile launchers, more than 140 aircraft, 73 surface vessels and 13 submarines, as well as 64,000 military personnel, are involved in the manoeuvres.
The exercises will also address issues relating to the preparation and use of nuclear weapons in Belarus.
The Kremlin has stated that the aim of the manoeuvres is to test the readiness of the troops and to “deter the enemy”.
Ukraine has described the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus and the joint nuclear exercises by the “two dictatorships” as an unprecedented challenge to global security.
As a reminder, the ISW previously explained why Russia has launched nuclear exercises at this particular time.
Follow us on Telegram
