Lukashenko "begged" Putin for the Oreshnik missile system for Belarus

Aliaksandr Lukashenka, who calls himself president of Belarus, has publicly asked Vladimir Putin to deploy the new Russian Oreshnik missile system on the territory of the republic. The request was made against the backdrop of Lukashenko's statements about the growing threat on Belarus' western borders and from Ukraine.

Lukashenko's statements

Lukashenko said the deployment of Oreshnik would supposedly ensure stability and "calm minds" in the region.

"I want to publicly ask you that new weapons systems, and first of all Oreshnik, be deployed on the territory of Belarus," Lukashenko said in Putin's presence.

Putin's reaction

Vladimir Putin supported the initiative, stressing that the implementation of the plan will begin no earlier than the second half of 2025.

The deployment of such complexes is possible. It will become possible in the second half of 2025," Putin said.

He also added that the targets to be hit with the complex will be determined by the military-political leadership of Belarus, leaving formal control to Minsk.

The Oreshnik missile system (whose specifications have not been officially disclosed) is considered a modern weapon of strategic importance. Its possible deployment in Belarus increases the militarisation of the region and raises alarm among neighbouring countries and NATO.

Lukashenko's request came shortly after Belarus hosted tactical nuclear weapons as part of agreements with Moscow. This was part of deepening integration within the Union State, accompanied by the transfer of new weapons to Minsk.

Western experts see the move as increasing Lukashenko's dependence on the Kremlin and as an instrument of pressure on neighbouring countries. NATO is likely to view the deployment of "Oreshnik" as a new challenge to the security of Eastern Europe, which could entail an increased military presence in the region.