What's happened
Russia has activated the Oreshnik missile system in Belarus, marking its combat readiness amid ongoing Ukraine peace talks. The deployment follows President Putin's warnings of expanding territorial gains and highlights Russia's military escalation in the region. The move occurs during tense negotiations involving Ukraine, the US, and NATO allies.
What's behind the headline?
The deployment of the Oreshnik missile system in Belarus signifies a strategic escalation by Russia, aiming to project strength and deter Western involvement in Ukraine. The system's capabilities, including Mach 10 speeds and immunity to interception, make it a significant threat to European security. Putin's warnings of potential use against NATO allies underscore Russia's willingness to escalate tensions. This move likely aims to pressure Kyiv and Western powers into concessions, while also signaling Russia's readiness to expand its military footprint. The timing during fragile peace talks suggests Moscow is prepared to leverage military force to influence negotiations and territorial outcomes. The abandonment of the INF Treaty in 2019 has facilitated the development and deployment of such intermediate-range missiles, further complicating European security dynamics.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Russia has deployed the Oreshnik missile system in Belarus, with a ceremony marking its activation. The article notes the system's capabilities and Putin's warnings of potential use against NATO allies. AP News confirms the deployment and Putin's statements, emphasizing the missile's range and strategic significance. Both sources highlight the timing during ongoing Ukraine peace negotiations and Russia's military posture. The Independent provides detailed insights into the missile's capabilities and Putin's strategic warnings, while AP News focuses on the deployment event and political context. The coverage underscores the escalation of Russia's military activities and the heightened risks for regional stability.
How we got here
Russia first used the Oreshnik missile system in November 2024 against Ukraine. The system, capable of carrying nuclear or conventional warheads and reaching all of Europe, was developed as part of Russia's military modernization. Its deployment in Belarus signals increased military pressure amid stalled peace negotiations and ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with Moscow seeking to create buffer zones and expand territorial control.
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