Putin announces deployment of hypersonic missiles to Belarus

In late 2022, Russia began developing the Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile, designed for both conventional and nuclear warheads with a range capable of reaching all of Europe. This missile is particularly notable for its hypersonic capabilities, allowing it to travel at speeds up to Mach 10 and evade interception. President Vladimir Putin, during a meeting with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko on Valaam Island near St. Petersburg, confirmed that Russia has produced the first series of these missiles and has actively selected deployment sites in Belarus. Preparations for this deployment are expected to conclude by the end of the year. The introduction of the Oreshnik missile aligns with Russia's renewed military strategies and a significant shift in its nuclear doctrine. This doctrine now explicitly includes Belarus under Russia's nuclear umbrella, providing security guarantees that had intensified concerns in Eastern Europe regarding potential aggressions. Tensions heightened after the abandonment of a key treaty that banned intermediate-range missiles in 2019, leading to fears of a renewed arms race in the region, particularly in light of Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Furthermore, Putin highlighted the missile's capabilities by mentioning its experimental use in November 2022 against a missile production facility in Ukraine, underscoring its effectiveness. The missile can deliver multiple warheads, making its impact comparable to that of a nuclear strike when deployed in numbers. As part of its defense initiative, Moscow has indicated the possible use of these upgraded missile systems to deter NATO allies who support Ukraine militarily against Russian interests. The decision to deploy hypersonic missiles to Belarus raises concerns about the strategic balance in Europe and further escalates tensions with NATO. The proximity of Belarus to Ukraine—a country currently engaged in conflict with Russia—adds to the complexity of the situation. Consequently, this military upgrade not only enhances Russia's targeting capabilities against Ukraine but also extends its reach towards NATO member states in Eastern and Central Europe. Observers in the West have expressed alarms over the implications of this new deployment, viewing it as a challenge to regional and global security stability.