russia is set to deploy its Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile system on Belarusian territory by the end of 2025. According to Belarusian State Secretary of the Security Council Alexander Volfovich, the sites for deployment have already been identified, and preparations are progressing in coordination with russia.
Alexander Volfovich emphasized that this deployment is in line with decisions made by the presidents of russia and Belarus, suggesting that the plans are entering the practical implementation phase. He described the move as a timely strategic deterrent aimed at "cooling hot heads" in the West, a phrase frequently used in russian and Belarusian rhetoric to describe NATO and its allies.
Read more: Belarus Assembles Launchers for russia’s Oreshnik Ballistic Missile and Will Receive Missiles After Completion
Despite the announcements, Ukrainian officials remain skeptical about the immediate capabilities of Belarus to host nuclear warheads. Oleh Ivashchenko, Head of the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine, noted that while Belarus does have delivery systems, such as the Iskander-M tactical ballistic missiles and compatible aircraft, it currently lacks actual nuclear warheads and completed storage facilities.
Ivashchenko clarified that what is being developed in Belarus are the infrastructure and storage solutions for future nuclear deployment, not an immediate increase in offensive nuclear capacity. He stressed that although russia has moved certain nuclear delivery platforms into Belarus, the country remains a non-nuclear state for the time being.
Interestingly, Belarusian authorities continue to portray the military alignment with russia as a defensive necessity rather than an aggressive posture.
Alexander Volfovich claimed that Belarus has no intention of expanding its armed forces or increasing its defense budget, stating that the nation's primary focus remains economic development and improving citizens' welfare.
In his final remarks, Alexander Volfovich warned that any aggression against Belarus would be met with "unacceptable damage" delivered by the Oreshnik system. This declaration underscores the system's role not just as a deterrent, but as a potential retaliatory weapon in russia and Belarus's integrated military planning.
Read more: Why Patriot Can't Counter Oreshnik, Even THAAD May Fall Short, and What Is Truly Needed
