Thursday, May 21Thursday, May 21Belarus and Russia conducted joint nuclear weapons drills on 18 May 2026, involving training exercises to practice the deployment and use of Russian tactical nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus. The Belarusian Defense Ministry confirmed the drills, stating they aimed to improve the readiness of their armed forces, while emphasizing that the exercises were pre-planned and not directed at any third party .
The drills drew sharp criticism from Ukraine and NATO allies, who warned that Russia was preparing a potential new offensive from Belarusian territory, either against Ukraine or NATO members. Kyiv specifically highlighted the risk of escalation, given Russia’s history of using Belarus as a staging ground for military operations .
Russia retains full control over the nuclear weapons deployed in Belarus, a point reinforced by President Vladimir Putin. The weapons were stationed in Belarus following an agreement in 2023, a year after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The drills included practicing the delivery of nuclear-capable systems, with Russia having previously deployed hypersonic missiles to Belarus in 2024 under a revised nuclear doctrine that places Belarus under Moscow’s nuclear umbrella .
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko dismissed international concerns, framing the drills as a routine military exercise. However, the timing—following recent Ukrainian strikes on Moscow and warnings from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky—has heightened tensions in the region .
> Background: **🔴 Breaking — Belarus and Russia conduct joint nuclear drills amid NATO and Ukraine warnings.** — *8 hours ago*
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