Russian authorities say nuclear munitions have been moved into field storage sites in Belarus as part of joint military drills, according to statements from the Russian Defense Ministry reported by Reuters. The exercises, which last three days and began earlier this week, are taking place across Russia and Belarus amid heightened tensions with Western countries over the war in Ukraine.
The Russian Defense Ministry said the move is part of drills involving nuclear forces, with special munitions delivered to storage areas near missile brigade positions in Belarus.
“As part of the nuclear forces' exercises, these nuclear munitions were delivered to field storage facilities in the area of the missile brigade's positions in Belarus,” the ministry stated.
Officials said the Belarus-based missile unit is practicing procedures linked to the Iskander-M tactical missile system, including receiving special ammunition, loading it onto launchers, and relocating to concealed positions ahead of a simulated launch.
Video released by the Defense Ministry shows military vehicles moving through a forested area during stormy weather and unloading cargo, though it remains unverified what exactly was being transported, Reuters reported.
