MOSCOW — In a startling announcement made during an economic forum, Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed that Russia has positioned its first batch of tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. Putin emphasized that these weapons would only be utilized if Russia’s territory or state faced imminent threats. The revelation has triggered global concerns about the escalating tensions between Russia and its neighbouring nations, particularly Ukraine.
The United States government, however, maintains that there is currently no indication that the Kremlin intends to employ nuclear weapons to attack Ukraine. “We don’t see any indications that Russia is preparing to use a nuclear weapon,” stated US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, following Putin’s remarks. Nevertheless, international observers remain apprehensive about the potential consequences of such military deployments.
Belarus, a crucial ally of Russia, played a pivotal role as a launchpad for Putin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February of last year. The Russian president further disclosed that the transfer of these tactical nuclear warheads would be finalized by the end of the summer. During a question-and-answer session at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Putin clarified that the deployment was intended for “containment” purposes, to serve as a deterrent against any potential threat to Russian statehood.
When asked about the possibility of utilizing these weapons, Putin responded, “Why should we threaten the whole world? I have already stated that the use of extreme measures is possible only in the event of a danger to Russian statehood.” His words echo the precarious balance between aggression and self-defence, heightening concerns about the future stability of the region.
Following their visit to Kyiv on Friday as part of a peace initiative being presented to both Russia and Ukraine, African leaders were met with a Russian missile attack in St. Petersburg. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called for de-escalation from both sides, urging peaceful negotiations. “We came here to listen and recognize what the people of Ukraine have endured,” he asserted. Conversely, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky insisted that instead of extending diplomatic overtures to Russia, the international community should isolate it diplomatically to convey a resolute message of condemnation for its invasion.
Zelensky vowed that Kyiv would not engage in negotiations with Moscow while it continued to occupy Ukrainian territory. Putin, on his part, reiterated his belief that Ukraine stood no chance of succeeding in its ongoing counter-offensive. He claimed that the Ukrainian military was running out of its own equipment and would soon rely solely on Western-donated resources. Dismissing any potential impact, he provocatively stated, “You can’t fight for long like that,” and warned that any US-supplied F16 fighter jets given to Ukraine “will burn, no doubt about it.”
Ukraine, however, remains steadfast in its determination, dismissing Putin’s remarks and asserting that progress is being made in reclaiming territory in both eastern and southern Ukraine. Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Malyar announced on Friday that Ukrainian units had advanced 2 kilometres in all directions in the south of the country. It is important to note that these battlefield claims cannot be independently verified by the BBC at this time.
In addition to military matters, Putin addressed economic themes during the forum. He asserted that Western sanctions on Russia had failed to isolate the nation and had instead led to an expansion of its trade with “the markets of the future.” Putin lauded new agreements with countries in Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, characterizing them as “reliable, responsible partners.” The implications of this economic outreach amid heightened geopolitical tensions remain to be seen.
As the situation unfolds, the international community remains on edge, cautiously observing the movements and rhetoric emanating from Russia. With tactical nuclear weapons now stationed in Belarus, the region faces an increasingly volatile future, raising questions about the potential consequences of this precarious standoff between Russia and its neighbouring nations.
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