Despite International Criticism... Russia Forces Deployment of Nuclear Weapons in Belarus

Vladimir Putin, President of Russia [Image source=Yonhap News]

Russia has reiterated its intention to proceed with the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus despite international criticism.

On the 27th (local time), according to foreign media including Sputnik News, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, said during a phone conference with reporters that regarding Western concerns about the plan, "Of course, such reactions will not change Russia's plans."

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated in an interview with state media on the 25th that the two countries had agreed to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus.

This marks the first time in 27 years since 1996 that Russia has deployed nuclear weapons abroad, following the completion of the transfer of nuclear weapons from Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan back to Russia.

Russia plans to complete the nuclear weapons storage facility by July 1.

Since Belarus shares borders not only with Ukraine but also with NATO member countries Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia, NATO immediately criticized President Putin's announcement.

The United States warned that the use of nuclear weapons would cross a significant red line, and the European Union (EU) emphasized that it could consider additional sanctions against Russia.

However, Russia is expected to push forward with the nuclear weapons deployment.

Spokesperson Peskov also continued to respond to accusations related to the explosion incident at the Nord Stream underwater gas pipeline heading from Russia to Germany in September last year.

He stated, "Russia will reveal which country or countries are behind the incident," emphasizing, "We will never allow the West's attempts to cover it up." He also said that Russia would identify those responsible and seek compensation.