Putin Announces Potential Deployment of Oreshnik Missiles in Belarus

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced plans to station the advanced Oreshnik missile system in Belarus as early as the second half of 2025. The announcement was made during a televised meeting with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, where both leaders formalized a security guarantee agreement in Minsk.

Putin described the deployment as a strategic move tied to increased missile production and integration into Russia’s Strategic Missile Forces. "Since we have signed an agreement today on security guarantees using all available forces and means, I consider the deployment of such systems as Oreshnik in Belarus to be possible," Putin said.

The Oreshnik missile system, touted for its medium-range capabilities, is capable of carrying nuclear warheads and reportedly boasts a range of up to 5,500 kilometers. According to military experts, the missile can travel at speeds exceeding ten times the speed of sound, giving it the ability to strike targets across Europe.

Sergei Karakayev, head of Russia's Strategic Missile Forces, highlighted the missile’s strategic advantages, stating, "Based on the tasks assigned and the range of this weapon, it can attack targets throughout the territory of Europe, which advantageously distinguishes it from other types of long-range high-precision weapons."

A New Front in Escalation

The announcement comes amid heightened tensions over the war in Ukraine. On November 21, Russian forces reportedly used the Oreshnik missile against a Ukrainian city, marking its combat debut. Putin framed the attack as retaliation for Ukrainian strikes on Russian territory using Western-supplied weaponry.

In his remarks, Putin also issued veiled threats against nations supplying arms to Ukraine, warning of direct strikes on "decision-making centers" in Kyiv. These statements underscore the Kremlin's escalating rhetoric as Western military aid to Ukraine continues.

Belarus as a Strategic Partner

Belarus, a close ally of Moscow, has played an increasingly prominent role in Russia’s military strategy. Hosting the Oreshnik system would not only expand Moscow's tactical reach but also serve as a countermeasure against NATO’s eastern flank. Lukashenko, a staunch supporter of Putin, has previously offered Belarusian territory for joint military exercises and logistical operations.

The planned deployment further cements the alliance between Russia and Belarus, raising concerns about the militarization of the region and the potential for broader conflict in Europe.

Global Reactions Awaited

International reactions to the announcement are expected in the coming days, with NATO likely to condemn the move as a destabilizing action. Western analysts warn that deploying Oreshnik missiles in Belarus would represent a significant escalation in Europe’s security landscape.