Russia has begun deploying nuclear munitions to storage facilities in Belarus as part of a three-day joint military exercise with its close ally. The drills, which involve testing nuclear-capable missiles and conducting covert movements of such weapons, are taking place across both Russian and Belarusian territory.
Ukraine Warns of Renewed Offensive
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has cautioned that Russia may be preparing a fresh ground offensive against Kyiv, and suggested that deeper involvement from Belarus could facilitate such an operation. The warning comes amid heightened military activity near Ukraine's northern border.
UK Accuses Russia of Dangerous Flybys
In a separate incident, the United Kingdom has accused Russian fighter jets of conducting dangerous flybys within six metres of a Royal Air Force surveillance aircraft over the Black Sea. UK Defence Secretary John Healey stated that such actions would not deter the UK from its commitment to defend NATO, its allies, and its interests against Russian aggression.
The developments mark a significant escalation in tensions between Russia and the West, with nuclear deployments to Belarus representing a shift in Moscow's strategic posture. Analysts suggest that the exercises are designed to test NATO's response capabilities and to signal Russia's readiness to use its nuclear arsenal.
