At a gathering in Minsk with Lukashenko, Putin conveyed his intentions directly.
For the second time since the start of his new term, Russian President Vladimir Putin held a meeting with his ally Alexander Lukashenko in Minsk, Belarus. The discussions revolved around security matters in the evening and later on Friday focused on the economic growth of both countries.
Discussing security, Putin mentioned the strategic maneuver of his military with tactical nuclear weapons. Lukashenko's troops would be joining this second stage, as confirmed by the Russian presidential press service. Russia has already placed tactical nuclear warheads along with their delivery systems in Belarus in what was perceived as a sign of deterrent against countries that might provide extra support to Ukraine, which is currently enduring attacks from Russia.
The Belarusian news agency Belta quoted Lukashenko, stating that Belarus and Russia were determined to deepen their relationship. Lukashenko found himself in a more significant reliance on Putin after fraudulent elections and massive protests in 2020, which he managed to stay in power with the help of Russia.
Putin took the oath for his fifth term in May and kicked off his official foreign visits by visiting China initially. Following the meeting in Belarus, he plans to visit Uzbekistan on Sunday and Monday.
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Source: www.ntv.de
