“The stationing of Russian nuclear weapons in Belarus leads to an irresponsible escalation of tension and may pose a threat to European security. Belarus can still prevent this, it is its choice. The EU is ready to respond with additional sanctions if necessary,” Borrell pointed out.
hosting Russian nuclear weapons would mean an irresponsible escalation & threat to European security. Belarus can still stop it, it is their choice. The EU stands ready to respond with further sanctions. #Belarus
— Josep (Borrell) March 26, 2023
The High Representative reacted to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s announcement on state television on Saturday evening: Moscow has reached an agreement with Belarus to station tactical nuclear weapons on the neighboring country’s territory.
According to Putin, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has long raised the issue of deploying tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, which borders Poland. According to the Russian president, Moscow and Minsk agreed on this.
Kiev urged the convening of the UN Security Council in the matter, and at the same time called on the seven leading industrial powers (G7) and the European Union to warn Belarus of the consequences if it allows the installation of Russian nuclear weapons.
On Sunday, NATO also sharply criticized the Moscow leadership for its “dangerous and irresponsible” nuclear rhetoric. “NATO is on the alert, and we are closely monitoring the situation. We have not seen any changes in Russia’s nuclear preparedness so far, which would require a modification of our own,” emphasized one of the spokesmen of the North Atlantic alliance.
In addition to Russia, Belarus also borders Ukraine and Poland.
Cover image: Getty Images
Leave a Comment