Russia and its ally Belarus are preparing for joint nuclear missile exercises near NATO’s borders next month. The upcoming Zapad-2025 war games are expected to involve around 150,000 troops and will include strategic planning for the use of nuclear weapons and the Oreshnik doomsday system, as announced by Belarus defense minister General Viktor Khrenin.
The deployment of Russian Iskander nuclear missiles in Belarus has raised concerns, especially after NATO scrambled warplanes following the downing of a Western F-16 fighter jet by Russia in Ukraine. Additionally, aircraft in Belarus have been modified for nuclear capabilities, and the Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile, capable of extreme temperatures, is set to be deployed soon.
Belarus expressed unease over the presence of Polish troops near its borders, highlighting the need for vigilance and a responsive military posture. Despite assurances that the exercises do not pose a threat to neighboring Ukraine, tensions remain high due to Russia’s ongoing conflict in the region.
Recent developments include Russian President Vladimir Putin closing airspace over a missile test site and signaling the production and deployment of the Oreshnik system, with plans to supply Belarus later this year. The Russian foreign ministry also announced the end of a moratorium on deploying medium- and short-range missiles, potentially linked to the Oreshnik missile program.
As preparations intensify for the upcoming drills, the geopolitical landscape in Eastern Europe remains tense, with concerns over escalating military capabilities and potential implications for regional security.