Putin Agrees to Potential Missile Deployment in Belarus

During a meeting in Minsk, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko requested the deployment of Russia's Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile system on Belarusian soil, citing concerns over security at Belarus' western borders and the situation in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin responded positively, stating that the deployment was 'possible' and could begin in the second half of 2025, coinciding with plans for mass production of the missile system. The leaders also signed a treaty on security guarantees, emphasizing mutual defense commitments and the potential use of Russian tactical nuclear weapons. Putin noted that while the Oreshnik would be integrated into Russia's Strategic Missile Forces, the determination of its targets would be managed by Belarus. This announcement follows a recent test of the Oreshnik in combat conditions against Ukraine, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region.