Oreshnik missile system goes on combat duty in Belarus

"Our military cooperation also provides strategic protection, primarily with the Russian Federation. Belarus and Russia are implementing a set of strategic deterrence measures. This is the deployment of the Russian component of the Regional Group of Troops on our territory: in the event of an escalation of the conflict, the armed forces, several tens of thousands of people from western Russia, immediately join the military struggle as a second echelon," Alexander Lukashenko noted.

The Head of State reminded that tactical nuclear weapons are also deployed in Belarus.

"In addition, the first positions are equipped for the Oreshnik missile system. He has been with us since yesterday and is going on combat duty," the President said.

Alexander Lukashenko responded to the criticism of those who doubted the need to deploy such powerful weapons in Belarus, saying that this was the primary target for the attacking side and the country would now be targeted. "Don't give in to these conversations," the Belarusian leader urged. 

He cited a parallel with the construction of the Belarusian nuclear power plant. At first, this decision was criticized both internally and by its closest neighbors. Lithuania is also interested in its own nuclear power plant, while Poland plans to acquire as many as two nuclear facilities. Germany and France have completely decommissioned their nuclear power plants.

"Therefore, do not give in to these conversations that nuclear weapons will be used and attacks will be launched on these facilities. What if they fight against us, will they pat us on the head? Strikes will be launched against us. And they will strike, as they say, at decision-making centers. Therefore, we are doing everything to prevent war," the Belarusian leader stressed.