Vladimir Putin unveils his plans to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, fueling tensions between Russia, the United States and NATO following the invasion of Ukraine.

Master move on the nuclear board

The President of Russia announced the completion of construction of a tactical nuclear weapons storage facility in Belarus on July 1.

While ensuring that it would not cede control of these weapons to Belarus or violate its nuclear non-proliferation commitments, the decision marked the alarming progress by the Kremlin in its arsenal since the invasion of Ukraine began.

Answer to an old request

Putin argued that the deployment was the result of an earlier request by Belarusian autocratic leader Alexander Lukashenko.

The country has served as a launching pad for Russia’s assault on Ukraine, further cementing its relationship with the Kremlin. Putin compared this deployment to US nuclear actions in Europe.

Ongoing training and preparation

The Russian leader revealed that Russia has equipped 10 Belarusian aircraft with the capability to carry tactical nuclear weapons and will start training Belarusian troops on the Iskander missile complex in April.

Although Putin has repeatedly indicated he will use “all means at his disposal” to protect Russia’s territorial advantages, it is unclear when work will start on the nuclear facility in Belarus or when the weapons will be deployed.

A dangerous game with uncertain consequences

Putin’s announcement could be a political signal in response to Belarusian Freedom Day.

The United States and Britain dispute Putin’s claims that they are escalating a nuclear conflict and remain committed to NATO’s collective defense.

This terrifying move in a game of nuclear chess unnerves all the players involved and increases tension in an already troubled world.

US and UK reactions

The United States and Britain rejected Putin’s claims, saying the cartridges — denser than lead and prized for their armor-piercing abilities — had only conventional uses.

US National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said her country had seen no indication that Russia was seeking to use nuclear weapons.

“We have seen no reason to adjust our own strategic nuclear posture or any indication that Russia is preparing to use nuclear weapons,” Watson said.

He added: “We remain committed to the collective defense of the NATO alliance.”

A US official said Putin’s announcement could be a political signal in response to Belarus’ Freedom Day, which celebrates the country’s opposition. On Friday, the United States imposed sanctions and visa bans on Belarusian officials and others for recognizing the holiday.