Wed Dec 31 06:09:59 UTC 2025: Summary:
Russia has deployed nuclear-capable Oreshnik hypersonic missiles to Belarus, a move confirmed by Russian officials and supported by video footage. This deployment, situated near NATO borders and Ukraine, is viewed by some Western analysts as a signal of Russia’s reliance on nuclear deterrence amid heightened tensions in the region. The missile’s range allows it to potentially strike targets across Europe and even parts of the US. While some question its impact on the battlefield, the move has raised concerns among Western leaders, particularly regarding Russia’s broader strategy toward Europe.
News Article:
Russia Deploys Hypersonic Nuclear Missiles to Belarus, Ratcheting Up Tensions with the West
Moscow – Russia has confirmed the deployment of its nuclear-capable Oreshnik hypersonic missile system to Belarus, a move that has sparked alarm in Western capitals and further inflamed tensions already heightened by the war in Ukraine. Footage released by Russian state media shows the mobile missile launchers navigating snowy terrain in Belarus.
Russian Ambassador to Belarus, Boris Gryzlov, hailed the deployment as a confirmation of the effectiveness of the bilateral security treaty between Russia and Belarus. The Oreshnik, touted by President Vladimir Putin as “impossible to intercept” due to its speed exceeding Mach 10, is now on combat duty in the country bordering NATO members and Ukraine.
The deployment has been scrutinized by Western analysts, with some interpreting it as a signal of Moscow’s reliance on nuclear deterrence to discourage further NATO support for Ukraine. The system’s range, reportedly up to 5,500km (3,418 miles), theoretically allows it to strike targets across Europe and even the western United States. Two US researchers confirmed the authenticity of the video footage, matching the imagery to satellite data of the Krichev-6 airbase.
This development comes amid escalating accusations and counter-accusations between Russia and Ukraine, with Moscow claiming a recent Ukrainian drone attack targeted Putin’s Valdai residence. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has denied the claim.
While some Western officials downplay the Oreshnik’s tactical significance, the move has drawn strong reactions from European leaders. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in his New Year’s address, warned of Russia’s broader agenda targeting Europe through aggression, sabotage, and cyberattacks. He emphasized the need for Europe to assert its own interests and act independently, especially given the uncertain future of transatlantic partnerships.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, a close ally of Putin, had previously confirmed the missile deployment as a response to perceived aggressive actions by the West.
The deployment marks a significant escalation in the ongoing geopolitical tensions and further complicates the security landscape in Eastern Europe.
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