Belarus conducts tactical nuclear drills under Russia's shadow
In Belarus, long-planned exercises for the use of tactical nuclear weapons are already underway. For this reason, many people fear that they could become an occasion for numerous provocations with atomic warheads. Paweł Podwig spoke about their actual use and the overall course of the exercises.
For several days, Belarus has been conducting extensive military exercises involving the use of tactical nuclear weapons. As Lukashenko says, "They are purely defensive in nature"; consequently, no provocations should be expected. Moreover, these will be one of the first exercises of their kind after Belarus was covered by the Russian "nuclear umbrella".
The readiness of the means of transportation - SU-25 attack aircraft and Iskander and Polonez missiles - is being tested. In this case, the aircraft is [tested] moving missile systems to specific points. All of this can be done without the involvement of nuclear units. From yesterday's reports, it was clear that the planes were flying, and Iskanders were moving. - reassures in conversation with the Mediazona portal Paweł Podwig, Senior Researcher at the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research.
Belarus's role in these exercises is marginal
The expert also notes that the role of the Belarusian army in these exercises, as declared by Lukashenko, is illusory. As Podwig claims, the entire nuclear arsenal in this territory will be managed by unit 12. of the Main Directorate of the Russian Ministry of Defense. Belarusian soldiers will be transporting nuclear ammunition to the designated place.
The Belarusian leader describes it as if he had the whole initiative. We can't say anything specific. I don't know who, what, and where directs, but I will say that one should be cautious of statements - adds the expert.
Podwig notes that such exercises usually do not take place with real nuclear ammunition. However, he points out that in the case of Belarus, it is difficult to unequivocally exclude such action. However, one can be sure that these charges are well and safely stored.
