Russia has transported nuclear ammunition to Belarus as part of a major military exercise

The Russian Ministry of Defense announced that, as part of a major nuclear exercise that began on Tuesday, nuclear munitions were transported to storage facilities in Belarus. The exercise, which takes place over three days, occurs in the context of the conflict in Ukraine, amid a perceived existential struggle with the West.

Russia detailed that the missile unit in Belarus is trained to receive special munitions for the Iskander-M missile system, including loading and moving munitions operations. Recordings broadcast by the ministry show a truck unloading an unidentified object. The Iskander-M system, known by the NATO code 'SS-26 Stone', can launch missiles with a range of up to 500 km, having the capability to carry nuclear warheads.

In this context, Russian President Vladimir Putin reiterated threats related to Russia's nuclear power, warning the West not to excessively support Ukraine. The Kremlin criticized statements from Lithuanian officials regarding NATO's capabilities in the region, highlighting existing geopolitical tensions.