Putin Signs Security Pact with Belarus, Including Nuclear Weapons Deployment

New Security Treaty Between Russia and Belarus
During his visit to Minsk, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a new security pact with Belarus, which includes the possibility of deploying Russian tactical nuclear weapons on Belarusian soil. This agreement strengthens the military ties between the two countries, marking the first time Belarus has officially been placed under Russia’s nuclear umbrella as part of the revised Russian nuclear doctrine. The treaty is part of Russia’s broader efforts to ensure the security of both nations amid growing tensions with the West, particularly over Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.

Tactical Nuclear Weapons and Advanced Missiles
One of the key elements of the treaty is the potential use of Russian nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus in response to external aggression. Putin confirmed that these weapons could be used to protect Belarus from threats to its sovereignty, with Belarus officially under Russia’s nuclear protection. Additionally, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko requested the deployment of advanced missile systems, including the ‘Oreshnik’ intermediate-range ballistic missile. These missiles, which were used by Russia to strike Ukrainian military targets in late November, are capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear warheads. Putin indicated that these missiles could be stationed in Belarus by mid-2025, although they would remain under Russian control, with Belarus given the ability to select targets.

Revised Nuclear Doctrine and Potential Escalation
The signing of this pact coincides with the recent revision of Russia’s nuclear doctrine, which now lowers the threshold for using nuclear weapons. This revision allows Russia to use nuclear weapons in response to any form of aggression against it or its allies, including Belarus. The revised doctrine also states that nuclear weapons could be used in retaliation for conventional attacks that threaten the territorial integrity or sovereignty of Russia and Belarus. The decision to place Belarus under Russia’s nuclear umbrella further solidifies the alliance between the two countries and marks a significant shift in regional security dynamics.

Belarusian Sovereignty and Opposition Views
Despite Russia’s assurances that the nuclear weapons would remain under Moscow’s control, Belarus’ security officials have stated that any use of these weapons would require the approval of Belarusian President Lukashenko. This situation has raised concerns about Belarus becoming further entangled in Russia’s geopolitical ambitions. Belarusian opposition figures, particularly in exile, have condemned the treaty, arguing that it represents a further erosion of Belarus’ sovereignty and independence. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, a prominent Belarusian opposition leader, stated that the security pact is part of Russia’s broader effort to tighten its control over Belarus, turning the country into a pawn in Moscow’s imperial strategy.