Russia has claimed it has deployed its latest nuclear-capable missile system, the Oreshnik, in Belarus. The announcement came a day after Moscow alleged that Ukraine had carried out a large-scale drone attack on President Vladimir Putin's residence in the Novgorod region, an accusation Kyiv has denied.
Footage released by the Russian defence ministry showed the missile system moving through a snowy forest, with soldiers disguising vehicles and raising a flag at an airbase in eastern Belarus near the Russian border. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko stated that 10 such systems would be stationed in the country.
The Kremlin has not provided evidence to support its claim of a drone attack on Putin's palace. Dmitry Peskov, Putin's spokesman, said no proof would be offered as all missiles were shot down, adding he could not comment on the lack of debris. Local residents reported hearing no explosions or anti-aircraft fire, and no visual evidence of the attack has emerged.
Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha dismissed the Russian accusations as baseless, urging other nations to ignore them. He expressed frustration with India, Pakistan and the UAE for expressing concern over the reports, saying such reactions encourage Russian propaganda. US President Donald Trump, however, endorsed Russia's account after a phone call with Putin, criticising the alleged attack.
The deployment of the Oreshnik system comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met Trump in Florida, where they discussed a 20-point peace plan. Zelenskyy has proposed a demilitarised zone and a referendum if Russia agrees to a ceasefire of at least 60 days, but ruled out ceding territory. He accused Russia of spreading 'fake news' to undermine progress after his 'fairly successful' meeting with Trump.
