Background on the Situation
Two US researchers have identified a possible new site in eastern Belarus where Russia might be deploying hypersonic nuclear-capable ballistic missiles. This development could enhance Russia’s ability to strike across Europe.
The assessment aligns with conclusions from US intelligence services, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity due to unauthorized public disclosure.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Intentions
Russian President Vladimir Putin has clearly expressed his intention to position Oreshnik intermediate-range missiles in Belarus, though the exact location has not been disclosed previously.
Experts suggest that deploying the Oreshnik missiles would highlight Kremlin’s growing reliance on nuclear weapons to deter NATO members from supplying arms to Ukraine that could reach Russia’s interior.
Reactions from Belarus and the US
The Russian embassy in Washington did not respond to a request for comment, and the Belarusian embassy declined to comment. Belta, the state news agency, quoted Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin as stating on Wednesday that deploying the Oreshnik would not alter Europe’s power balance and was a response to “aggressive actions” by the West.
The White House and the CIA did not respond to requests for comment.
Researchers’ Findings
Jeffrey Lewis from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies in California and Decker Eveleth from CNA, a research and analysis organization in Virginia, based their findings on satellite imagery from Planet Labs, a commercial satellite firm. The images showed characteristics consistent with a Russian strategic missile base.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the new missiles being deployed? The new missiles being considered for deployment in Belarus are hypersonic nuclear-capable ballistic missiles.
- Why is this significant? This development could strengthen Russia’s ability to strike targets across Europe, potentially altering the strategic balance.
- Who are the researchers making these claims? The researchers are Jeffrey Lewis from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and Decker Eveleth from CNA.
- What is the stance of Belarus and the US regarding these claims? The Belarusian government has stated that the deployment will not affect Europe’s power balance, while the US has neither confirmed nor denied these reports.
- What is the significance of Oreshnik missiles? These intermediate-range missiles are intended by Putin to be positioned in Belarus, highlighting Russia’s increasing reliance on nuclear deterrence against NATO.
