Description: Russian President Vladimir Putin has submitted the security pact with Belarus before the Russian Duma. The agreement which has been signed in Dec 2024, embroiled deployment of Russian long – range ballistic missiles and tactical nuclear weapons on Belarussian territory. With the security agreement pending approval, Belorussian President Alexander Lukashenko has also stated that Russian Oreshnik missiles could be deployed much earlier than the projected end of 2025. President Putin has stated that with security issues being key for both countries, the agreement would strengthen the regional alliance and serve as a deterrent from further security threats.
Impact: The security pact represents reaffirmation of the hard – line stance by Belarus and Russia towards the rest of Europe. The rearming of Belarus could elevate the security stances of neighboring countries such as Poland, Latvia and Lithuania, especially with the provision or deployment of tactical nuclear weapons on Belarussian territory. EU and NATO allies even though provided constant military and defense support especially to Poland haven’t made concessions regarding security agreements that involved tactical nuclear weapons. With significant Russian advances on key Ukrainian territories recently, EU and NATO must readapt strategically in order to subdue Russia on the hypothetical negotiation table.