Moscow and Minsk have reached an agreement to deploy mobile ground-based medium-range ballistic missile systems, known as the Oreshnik, on Belarusian territory by the end of 2025, according to the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine. The move could significantly escalate military threats not only against Ukraine but also across much of Europe.
According to intelligence data obtained by LIGA.net, the systems are expected to be stationed in the Mogilev region of eastern Belarus, a location offering strategic reach deep into both European and Ukrainian territory.
Read more: Alexander Lukashenko Accidentally Leaks the Oreshnik Missile Data (Photos)
"There are agreements between the russian Federation and Belarus regarding the deployment of mobile ground-based missile systems with the Oreshnik medium-range ballistic missiles on Belarusian soil. Preliminary information indicates they will be deployed in the Mogilev region by the end of 2025," the intelligence document states.
While technical details about the Oreshnik system remain classified, its designation as a medium-range ballistic missile suggests a potential range of 1,000 to 5,500 kilometers, enough to threaten key European capitals, including Warsaw, Berlin, and potentially even Paris, depending on launch parameters. If confirmed, the system's placement in Belarus would mark the first known deployment of such weapons in Europe since the end of the Cold War.
Ukrainian intelligence emphasizes that the deployment would dramatically expand russia's strike capability toward both Ukraine's western regions and NATO's eastern flank. Positioned in Belarus, the missiles would allow russian forces to bypass certain air defense corridors, offering shorter flight times and reduced detection windows for European missile defense systems.
As Defense Express previously reported, Ukraine has reportedly approved the long-anticipated project to localize the production of German-made Lynx infantry fighting vehicles. The initiative, led by Rheinmetall, goes beyond meeting the urgent need for armored vehicles, it could also support the future development of Ukraine's short-range air defense network.
Read more: Ukraine Approves Local Production of the Lynx IFVs: How Rheinmetall Project May Boost Air Defense Capabilities
