Belarus’s Defense Ministry announced on May 18 that the maneuvers aim to prepare personnel, check military equipment, and train weapon deployment from non-designated areas. Units of missile forces and the air force are taking part. Russia and Belarus are practicing the transport of nuclear warheads and preparation for deployment, according to the ministry.
The ministry in Minsk stressed that the exercise is a planned event, not directed against third countries, and poses no security threat to the region. However, Ukraine views the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus and the joint maneuvers as an unprecedented challenge to global security. Kyiv’s Foreign Ministry described it as an action of “two dictatorships” and called on the international community to respond decisively.
