Putin Activates the Nuclear Button from China: A Deterrence Message on NATO’s Borders
While Russian President Vladimir Putin is in China, Moscow has transferred nuclear munitions to locations near NATO’s eastern flank.
On Thursday, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced the transfer of “nuclear munitions to field storage sites in Belarus” as part of nuclear exercises conducted by the forces of both countries on NATO’s eastern flank, according to the Russian outlet RT.
Personnel from Belarusian missile units received the munitions, loaded them onto launch platforms, and then moved to the designated area in preparation for launch operations.
On May 18, Belarus began exercises focused on the operational use of nuclear weapons and nuclear support for military units.
Nuclear Drills
The exercises involve the Strategic Missile Forces, the Northern and Pacific Fleets, the Long-Range Aviation Command, and certain units from the Leningrad and Central Military Districts.
More than 64,000 military personnel and 7,800 pieces of military equipment are participating in the drills, including more than 200 missile launch platforms, 140 aircraft, 73 surface ships, and 13 submarines, including eight submarines equipped with strategic missiles.
On Tuesday, Russia and Belarus launched three-day military exercises aimed at preparing and deploying their strategic nuclear forces.
These drills coincide with the official visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to China.
Russian military expert Dmitry Kornev stated that the timing of these exercises alongside Putin’s visit to China “is not a coincidence.” According to him, the drills are not merely a combat readiness test, but also “a message directed at Western countries.”
He explained that the message indicates that “the presence of the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces abroad does not hinder control over the nuclear arsenal. Technical means make it possible to issue any orders from anywhere in the world, whether from an aircraft in flight or from outside Russian territory.”
He added: “Moreover, testing communication channels under such circumstances could become an essential element, even if it is not officially announced,” noting that “despite speculation regarding the element of surprise, the Kremlin’s tactics concerning strategic stability remain clear.”
Advance Notification
He said: “The potential adversary received prior notification of the planned launches through closed diplomatic channels between the Russian Foreign Ministry and the U.S. State Department.”
For his part, expert Viktor Litovkin stated: “Even with the suspension of the New START treaty between Russia and the United States, mutual notification commitments are being strictly observed. The current exercises are a natural response to NATO activities.”
He added: “Under these circumstances, it is logical and justified for Moscow and Minsk to conduct joint exercises involving nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus.”
