The war in Ukraine has raised the nuclear threat level to its highest since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis following the announcement of President Vladimir Putin that Russia will be stationing its tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of neighbouring Belarus.

Putin then went on to assert that the move would not violate the nuclear non-proliferation agreement&nbsp;saying that even US has stationed weapons across Europe, Russian state media reported.

This will be the first time since the mid-1990s that Moscow will have base&nbsp;nuclear arms outside the country.

Since last year, several countries have voiced concerns over the potential use of nuclear weapons by Russia in the ongoing Ukrainian war.

Though there has&nbsp;been occasional rhetoric&nbsp;about the possible use of nukes, Russia has never explicitly implied that it will be using nuclear ammunition in its war against Ukraine.

However, Saturday’s announcement made it clear that it won’t be shying away from using “tactical nuclear” weapons, and not the strategic (or full fuelled) nuclear bombs, if there is any threat to its sovereignty.

What are ‘tactical’ nuclear weapons?

According to experts, tactical or non-strategic nuclear weapons are used for specific tactical gains on the battlefield, rather than, destroying the biggest cities or causing widespread devastation.

They generally have small explosive power and are defined in contrast to strategic nuclear weapons, which are designed mostly to be targeted at the enemy interior far away from the war front against military bases, cities, towns, arms industries to damage the enemy's ability to wage war.

So far, no tactical nuclear weapon has ever been used in a combat situation.

The tactical nuclear weapons can be one kiloton or less (producing the equivalent to a thousand tonnes of the explosive TNT). The largest ones can be as big as 100 kilotons.

For comparison, the atomic bomb dropped by US on Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945 was 15 kilotons.

These tactical weapons were developed early during the Cold War era as method of deterrence. Apart from Russia, US and its European allies have these weapons as part of their "flexible response" to any threat from Russia and its allies.

How many tactical weapons does Russia have?

Limited information is available to know exactly how many tactical nuclear weapons Russia has&nbsp;because it is an area still shrouded in traditions of Cold War secrecy.

However, US intelligence pegs Russia’s number to about 2,000.

On other hand, the United States has around 200 such weapons, half of which are stationed at bases in Europe. These 12-ft B61 nuclear bombs, with different yields of 0.3 to 170 kilotons, are deployed at six air bases across Italy, Germany, Turkey, Belgium and the Netherlands, according to Reuters news agency.

How can they be used?

Tactical nuclear warheads can be placed on various types of missiles which are normally used to deliver conventional explosives, such as cruise missiles and artillery shells.

They can also be fired from aircraft and ships as anti-ship missiles, torpedoes and depth charges.

The US claims that Russia has recently been investing heavily in these weapons to improve their range and accuracy.

What are the concerns?

The United States has cautiously reacted to the news saying that the world faces the gravest nuclear danger since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, citing the remarks made by Putin during the Ukraine conflict.

However, Moscow says that his remarks have been taken out of context.

Kyiv and its Western allies fear tactical nuclear weapons could be used in battle after Putin and others warned Russia was prepared to use all its vast arsenal in defence.

Stationing nuclear weapons

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the US made strident efforts to return the Soviet nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus, Ukraine and Kazakhstan to Russia - which inherited the nuclear arsenal of the Soviet Union.

Since the weapons were returned in the early 1990s, Russia has not announced any nuclear weapon deployments outside its borders.

According to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which was signed by the Soviet Union, no nuclear power can transfer nuclear weapons or technology to a non-nuclear power. But it does allow for the weapons to be deployed outside its borders but under its control - as with US nuclear weapons in Europe.

Who can order the launch of nuclear weapons?

As with other countries, the head of the state is the ultimate decision-maker. In Russia, President Vladimir Putin wields the power when it comes to ordering the use of Russian nuclear weapons, both strategic and non-strategic, according to its nuclear doctrine.

These weapons are stored in at least 30 military bases and silos under the control of the 12th Main Directorate of the defence ministry (12th GUMO) headed by Igor Kolesnikov, who reports directly to the defence minister.

In order to launch a strategic nuclear weapon strike, Putin would have to consult with senior allies from the Russian Security Council before ordering, via the general staff, that a warhead be joined with a delivery vehicle and prepared for a potential launch order.

Since Putin cannot predict the US response, Russia's entire nuclear posture would change: submarines would go to sea, missile forces would be put on full alert and strategic bombers would be visible at bases, ready for immediate take-off.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The war in Ukraine has raised the nuclear threat level to its highest since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis following the announcement of President Vladimir Putin that Russia will be stationing its tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of neighbouring Belarus.

The war in Ukraine has raised the nuclear threat level to its highest since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis following the announcement of President Vladimir Putin that Russia will be stationing its tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of neighbouring Belarus. Putin then went on to assert that the move would not violate the nuclear non-proliferation agreement saying that even US has stationed weapons across Europe, Russian state media reported. This will be the first time since the mid-1990s that Moscow will have base nuclear arms outside the country. Since last year, several countries have voiced concerns over the potential use of nuclear weapons by Russia in the ongoing Ukrainian war. Though there has been occasional rhetoric about the possible use of nukes, Russia has never explicitly implied that it will be using nuclear ammunition in its war against Ukraine. However, Saturday’s announcement made it clear that it won’t be shying away from using “tactical nuclear” weapons, and not the strategic (or full fuelled) nuclear bombs, if there is any threat to its sovereignty. What are ‘tactical’ nuclear weapons? According to experts, tactical or non-strategic nuclear weapons are used for specific tactical gains on the battlefield, rather than, destroying the biggest cities or causing widespread devastation. They generally have small explosive power and are defined in contrast to strategic nuclear weapons, which are designed mostly to be targeted at the enemy interior far away from the war front against military bases, cities, towns, arms industries to damage the enemy's ability to wage war. So far, no tactical nuclear weapon has ever been used in a combat situation. The tactical nuclear weapons can be one kiloton or less (producing the equivalent to a thousand tonnes of the explosive TNT). The largest ones can be as big as 100 kilotons. For comparison, the atomic bomb dropped by US on Hiroshima, Japan, in 1945 was 15 kilotons. These tactical weapons were developed early during the Cold War era as method of deterrence. Apart from Russia, US and its European allies have these weapons as part of their "flexible response" to any threat from Russia and its allies. How many tactical weapons does Russia have? Limited information is available to know exactly how many tactical nuclear weapons Russia has because it is an area still shrouded in traditions of Cold War secrecy. However, US intelligence pegs Russia’s number to about 2,000. On other hand, the United States has around 200 such weapons, half of which are stationed at bases in Europe. These 12-ft B61 nuclear bombs, with different yields of 0.3 to 170 kilotons, are deployed at six air bases across Italy, Germany, Turkey, Belgium and the Netherlands, according to Reuters news agency. How can they be used? Tactical nuclear warheads can be placed on various types of missiles which are normally used to deliver conventional explosives, such as cruise missiles and artillery shells. They can also be fired from aircraft and ships as anti-ship missiles, torpedoes and depth charges. The US claims that Russia has recently been investing heavily in these weapons to improve their range and accuracy. What are the concerns? The United States has cautiously reacted to the news saying that the world faces the gravest nuclear danger since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, citing the remarks made by Putin during the Ukraine conflict. However, Moscow says that his remarks have been taken out of context. Kyiv and its Western allies fear tactical nuclear weapons could be used in battle after Putin and others warned Russia was prepared to use all its vast arsenal in defence. Stationing nuclear weapons After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, the US made strident efforts to return the Soviet nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus, Ukraine and Kazakhstan to Russia - which inherited the nuclear arsenal of the Soviet Union. Since the weapons were returned in the early 1990s, Russia has not announced any nuclear weapon deployments outside its borders. According to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which was signed by the Soviet Union, no nuclear power can transfer nuclear weapons or technology to a non-nuclear power. But it does allow for the weapons to be deployed outside its borders but under its control - as with US nuclear weapons in Europe. Who can order the launch of nuclear weapons? As with other countries, the head of the state is the ultimate decision-maker. In Russia, President Vladimir Putin wields the power when it comes to ordering the use of Russian nuclear weapons, both strategic and non-strategic, according to its nuclear doctrine. These weapons are stored in at least 30 military bases and silos under the control of the 12th Main Directorate of the defence ministry (12th GUMO) headed by Igor Kolesnikov, who reports directly to the defence minister. In order to launch a strategic nuclear weapon strike, Putin would have to consult with senior allies from the Russian Security Council before ordering, via the general staff, that a warhead be joined with a delivery vehicle and prepared for a potential launch order. Since Putin cannot predict the US response, Russia's entire nuclear posture would change: submarines would go to sea, missile forces would be put on full alert and strategic bombers would be visible at bases, ready for immediate take-off. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Explained: What are tactical nuclear weapons, and how Russia may use them?

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Belarus on Monday (December 19) to discuss the key aspects of the further development of the strategic partnership and alliance between both nations. Russian defence and foreign ministers also accompanied Putin during his rare visit to the ex-Soviet ally.&nbsp;

Putin's visit came on the same day when Russia reportedly launched a "kamikaze" drone attack in Ukraine. Moscow targeted key infrastructure in and around Kyiv which caused emergency blackouts in a dozen regions.&nbsp;

Kremlin's statement mentioned that the focus of Putin's visit is on the integration within the Union State, as well as current issues on the international and regional agenda.&nbsp;

The Russian state television showed Putin disembarking a plane at an airport in Minsk. He was greeted by his close ally Lukashenko ahead of bilateral talks.&nbsp;

Some Western experts have raised concerns that Putin will urge Belarus to join the fresh ground offensive against Ukraine. If it happened, it will open a new front for Kyiv in the ongoing war, which started on February 24.&nbsp;

But Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denied all the reports and termed them "totally stupid, groundless fabrications."

As translated by the news agency Reuters, Putin said, "I want to note that last year, in 2021, we saw a very good jump forward in our trade and economy. Our trade turnover, and I want to stress this, even before all the different events connected to the "special military operation", before that, in 2021, rose by a third and reached $38.5 billion. That's a really good, important result."&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | Taiwan's military intake the lowest in a decade&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-taiwans-military-intake-the-lowest-in-a-decade-544602/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On the other hand, Lukashenko told Putin, "Difficult times require us to have political will and to focus on getting results on all topics of the bilateral agenda. The main issues lately have been defence and security issues."&nbsp;

Ahead of the visit, Russia announced its forces were running military drills with Belarusian forces. The Russian defence ministry released footage of drills in Belarus.&nbsp;

The footage showed soldiers conducting tank manoeuvres and practising artillery and sniper fire at a snow-dusted training ground. The ministry said: "From the morning until the evening twilight -- there is not a single second of silence at the training grounds of Belarus."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Belarus on Monday (December 19) to discuss the key aspects of the further development of the strategic partnership and alliance between both nations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Belarus on Monday (December 19) to discuss the key aspects of the further development of the strategic partnership and alliance between both nations. Russian defence and foreign ministers also accompanied Putin during his rare visit to the ex-Soviet ally. Putin's visit came on the same day when Russia reportedly launched a "kamikaze" drone attack in Ukraine. Moscow targeted key infrastructure in and around Kyiv which caused emergency blackouts in a dozen regions. Kremlin's statement mentioned that the focus of Putin's visit is on the integration within the Union State, as well as current issues on the international and regional agenda. The Russian state television showed Putin disembarking a plane at an airport in Minsk. He was greeted by his close ally Lukashenko ahead of bilateral talks. Some Western experts have raised concerns that Putin will urge Belarus to join the fresh ground offensive against Ukraine. If it happened, it will open a new front for Kyiv in the ongoing war, which started on February 24. But Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denied all the reports and termed them "totally stupid, groundless fabrications." As translated by the news agency Reuters, Putin said, "I want to note that last year, in 2021, we saw a very good jump forward in our trade and economy. Our trade turnover, and I want to stress this, even before all the different events connected to the "special military operation", before that, in 2021, rose by a third and reached $38.5 billion. That's a really good, important result." WATCH | WION Fineprint | Taiwan's military intake the lowest in a decade × On the other hand, Lukashenko told Putin, "Difficult times require us to have political will and to focus on getting results on all topics of the bilateral agenda. The main issues lately have been defence and security issues." Ahead of the visit, Russia announced its forces were running military drills with Belarusian forces. The Russian defence ministry released footage of drills in Belarus. The footage showed soldiers conducting tank manoeuvres and practising artillery and sniper fire at a snow-dusted training ground. The ministry said: "From the morning until the evening twilight -- there is not a single second of silence at the training grounds of Belarus." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Putin's rare visit to Belarus: Lukashenko urges unity with Russia in 'difficult times'

The Russian foreign ministry has said that in order to counter the ''aggressive'' West, President Vladimir Putin told his counterpart from Belarus that Moscow would supply Minsk with missile systems capable of carrying nuclear weapons.

Expressing concern about the "confrontational" and "repulsive" policies of its neighbours Lithuania and Poland, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko asked Putin to help Belarus mount a "symmetrical response".

In response, Putin assured Lukashenko that Belarus' Russian-built Su-25 jets could be upgraded if necessary.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-at-war-russia-captures-severodonetsk-from-ukraine-491829/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

A foreign ministry summary of the meeting quoted him as saying, "We will transfer Iskander-M tactical missile systems to Belarus, which can use both ballistic and cruise missiles, both in conventional and nuclear versions."

Replacing the Soviet "Scud", the Iskander-M mobile includes two guided missiles have a range of up to 500 km (300 miles) and can carry conventional or nuclear warheads.

Putting Belarus and its close ally Russia under one umbrella, Lukashenko said, "Minsk must be ready for anything, even the use of serious weaponry to defend our fatherland from Brest to Vladivostok."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-farm-animals-burned-alive-in-russian-bombing-491640" hreflang="en">Ukraine farm animals burned alive in Russian bombing</a>

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24, tensions between Russia and the West have soared along with triggering a barrage of&nbsp;sanctions against Moscow.

As a result of the Ukraine war, Sweden and Russia's northern neighbour Finland have applied to join the Western alliance.&nbsp;

By blocking the transit of goods subject to European sanctions travelling across its territory from Russia, Lithuania, in particular, has infuriated Moscow which has termed it a "blockade".

However, Lithuania has defended its decision by saying that it affects only 1 per cent of the normal goods transit on the route.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1&lt;/div">&amp;times;</iframe></div>

&nbsp;
</div>

The Russian foreign ministry has said that in order to counter the ''aggressive'' West, President Vladimir Putin told his counterpart from Belarus that Moscow would supply Minsk with missile systems capable of carrying nuclear weapons.

The Russian foreign ministry has said that in order to counter the ''aggressive'' West, President Vladimir Putin told his counterpart from Belarus that Moscow would supply Minsk with missile systems capable of carrying nuclear weapons. Expressing concern about the "confrontational" and "repulsive" policies of its neighbours Lithuania and Poland, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko asked Putin to help Belarus mount a "symmetrical response". In response, Putin assured Lukashenko that Belarus' Russian-built Su-25 jets could be upgraded if necessary. × A foreign ministry summary of the meeting quoted him as saying, "We will transfer Iskander-M tactical missile systems to Belarus, which can use both ballistic and cruise missiles, both in conventional and nuclear versions." Replacing the Soviet "Scud", the Iskander-M mobile includes two guided missiles have a range of up to 500 km (300 miles) and can carry conventional or nuclear warheads. Putting Belarus and its close ally Russia under one umbrella, Lukashenko said, "Minsk must be ready for anything, even the use of serious weaponry to defend our fatherland from Brest to Vladivostok." Also read | Ukraine farm animals burned alive in Russian bombing Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24, tensions between Russia and the West have soared along with triggering a barrage of sanctions against Moscow. As a result of the Ukraine war, Sweden and Russia's northern neighbour Finland have applied to join the Western alliance. By blocking the transit of goods subject to European sanctions travelling across its territory from Russia, Lithuania, in particular, has infuriated Moscow which has termed it a "blockade". However, Lithuania has defended its decision by saying that it affects only 1 per cent of the normal goods transit on the route. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Russia will supply Belarus with missile systems capable of carrying nuclear weapons

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that Moscow will launch a lunar probe with ally Belarus.

Recalling Soviet successes in space, Putin said “it’s certainly impossible to isolate anyone in the world of today, especially such a huge country as Russia.”&nbsp;

He was referring to NASA which is boycotting Russian space agency Roscosmos after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-army-rejigs-on-both-sides-as-conflict-continues-for-more-than-a-month-now-470507/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Putin added that “we will work with those of our partners who want to cooperate.”

In the first known trip outside Moscow since Russian launched military action in Ukraine, Putin met Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia's Far East.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oxfam-warns-russias-invasion-of-ukraine-can-push-quarter-of-a-billion-people-into-extreme-poverty-470466" hreflang="en">Ukraine invasion can push quarter of a bn people into extreme poverty: Oxfam</a>

He said Russia will deepen cooperation with Belarus on space infrastructure and technology. Roskosmos is going to train a Belarusian for flight on a Russian spacecraft.

According to Putin, Russia plans on launching a probe called Luna-25 to the moon in the third quarter of this year.

Russia continues to redeploy its forces for a push on eastern Ukraine, and fighting is expected to intensify there over the next two to three weeks as per Britain’s defence ministry.

It says Russian forces are withdrawing from Belarus in order to redeploy in support of operations in eastern Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that Moscow will launch a lunar probe with ally Belarus. Recalling Soviet successes in space, Putin said “it’s certainly impossible to isolate anyone in the world of today, especially such a huge country as Russia.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Tuesday that Moscow will launch a lunar probe with ally Belarus. Recalling Soviet successes in space, Putin said “it’s certainly impossible to isolate anyone in the world of today, especially such a huge country as Russia.” He was referring to NASA which is boycotting Russian space agency Roscosmos after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Putin added that “we will work with those of our partners who want to cooperate.” In the first known trip outside Moscow since Russian launched military action in Ukraine, Putin met Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in Russia's Far East. Also read | Ukraine invasion can push quarter of a bn people into extreme poverty: Oxfam He said Russia will deepen cooperation with Belarus on space infrastructure and technology. Roskosmos is going to train a Belarusian for flight on a Russian spacecraft. According to Putin, Russia plans on launching a probe called Luna-25 to the moon in the third quarter of this year. Russia continues to redeploy its forces for a push on eastern Ukraine, and fighting is expected to intensify there over the next two to three weeks as per Britain’s defence ministry. It says Russian forces are withdrawing from Belarus in order to redeploy in support of operations in eastern Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Vladimir Putin says Russia will launch a lunar probe with ally Belarus

Amid diplomatic efforts to bring the Ukraine crisis to an end, the United States said today that Russia has been building its forces along the border.

"We have continued to see even over the last 24 hours additional capabilities flow from elsewhere in Russia to that border with Ukraine and Belarus," the Pentagon said.

The Pentagon said the "numbers continue to grow" referring to the Russian troop deployment.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/skyfall-avangard-sarmat-russias-new-killer-superpower-weapons-revealed-448724">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Skyfall, Avangard, Sarmat: Russia's new killer 'superpower' weapons revealed</a>

&nbsp;"We also see indications that additional battalion tactical groups are on their way," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said, adding,"Every day he adds to his options. Every day he adds to his capabilities," Kirby added pointing at President Putin.

Meanwhile, Russia is set to launch its military exercise in Belarus. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg had said there would be at least 30,000 troops including Spetsnaz special operations forces, fighter jets and deployment of S-400 air defence system.

The White House called the military exercise was&nbsp;"escalatory and not a de-escalatory action" amid tensions with Ukraine.

Watch:&nbsp;Inside Ukraine's training camp for foreign fighters

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ukraine-direct-inside-ukraines-training-camp-for-foreign-fighters-451810/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"I wouldn't make a prediction as to what it means in terms of an invasion," White House spokesperson Jen Psaki said.&nbsp;

Earlier, President Macron had met Ukraine President &nbsp;Volodymyr Zelensky and Putin in a bid to find a solution to the ongoing crisis. Macron informed President Biden about the meeting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russias-dagger-on-ukraine-kinzhal-hypersonic-missiles-can-degrade-high-value-targets-447431">Also Read in Pics|&nbsp;Russia's 'Dagger' on Ukraine: Kinzhal hypersonic missiles can degrade high value targets</a>

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to visit Ukraine and Russia as diplomatic efforts continue to diffuse the Ukraine crisis after Russia deployed over 100,000 troops at the border with Ukraine.

Russia insists NATO should not extend its influence to the east.

Last month Kremlin had submitted a security document to the US and NATO directing it not to induct ex-Soviet states into its military alliance referring to Ukraine, however, the move was rejected both by the White House and NATO.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid diplomatic efforts to bring the Ukraine crisis to an end, the United States said today that Russia has been building its forces along the border. "We have continued to see even over the last 24 hours additional capabilities flow from elsewhere in Russia to that border with Ukraine and Belarus," the Pentagon said.

Amid diplomatic efforts to bring the Ukraine crisis to an end, the United States said today that Russia has been building its forces along the border. "We have continued to see even over the last 24 hours additional capabilities flow from elsewhere in Russia to that border with Ukraine and Belarus," the Pentagon said. The Pentagon said the "numbers continue to grow" referring to the Russian troop deployment. Also Read in Pics: Skyfall, Avangard, Sarmat: Russia's new killer 'superpower' weapons revealed "We also see indications that additional battalion tactical groups are on their way," Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said, adding,"Every day he adds to his options. Every day he adds to his capabilities," Kirby added pointing at President Putin. Meanwhile, Russia is set to launch its military exercise in Belarus. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg had said there would be at least 30,000 troops including Spetsnaz special operations forces, fighter jets and deployment of S-400 air defence system. The White House called the military exercise was "escalatory and not a de-escalatory action" amid tensions with Ukraine. Watch: Inside Ukraine's training camp for foreign fighters "I wouldn't make a prediction as to what it means in terms of an invasion," White House spokesperson Jen Psaki said. Earlier, President Macron had met Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky and Putin in a bid to find a solution to the ongoing crisis. Macron informed President Biden about the meeting. Also Read in Pics| Russia's 'Dagger' on Ukraine: Kinzhal hypersonic missiles can degrade high value targets German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is set to visit Ukraine and Russia as diplomatic efforts continue to diffuse the Ukraine crisis after Russia deployed over 100,000 troops at the border with Ukraine. Russia insists NATO should not extend its influence to the east. Last month Kremlin had submitted a security document to the US and NATO directing it not to induct ex-Soviet states into its military alliance referring to Ukraine, however, the move was rejected both by the White House and NATO. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ukraine crisis: Russia continues to deploy more forces, adding tactical groups, says US

Russia used combat robots and tactical vehicles during the large scale military exercise "Zapad-2021" along the Belarus border involving thousands of troops.

Reports said Russia also used the Sarmat-2 tactical vehicle even as the country's defence ministry released pictures of Russian warships, jets and tanks taking part in the exercise.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2021-russian-president-vladimir-putin-blames-us-for-afghanistan-crisis-411992/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The joint drill between Russia and Belarus involved at least 290 tanks including multiple launch rocket systems. The exercise began on Thursday and went on&nbsp;full gear on Friday even as President Putin said it was "not directed against anyone".&nbsp;

<img alt="Russia excercise" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e4c25e79-dcfa-4a4f-8c4a-aa0b4e8fafd2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/R3.jpg" />

Russia's ally Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko met Putin ahead of the exercise to deepen ties as the two leaders looked to sign integration agreements in November.

The exercise has however alerted Poland which declared a state of emergency along the eastern border as Polish PM Morawiecki warned of possible "provocations".

<img alt="Russian troops" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="336a4b32-aedd-4c41-b65e-a46030462ebc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/R2.jpg" />

Estonia defence forces commander Martin Helem added that "this could actually happen in the coming year", referring to a possible Russian military attack on Estonia.

Putin sought to downplay the drill even as he raised the Afghan issue, saying: "You can blame anything on Belarus, but at least take in the Afghans," the Russian president said while taking a dig at the EU.

Western nations have imposed several sanctions on Belarus over the past 18 months as Lukashenko has tilted towards Putin for support.

The exercise will continue until September 16 as Kremlin declared Putin would visit Belarus in November.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Russia used combat robots and tactical vehicles during the large scale military exercise "Zapad-2021" along the Belarus border involving thousands of troops. Reports said Russia also used the Sarmat-2 tactical vehicle even as the country's defence ministry released pictures of Russian warships, jets and tanks taking part in the exercise.

Russia used combat robots and tactical vehicles during the large scale military exercise "Zapad-2021" along the Belarus border involving thousands of troops. Reports said Russia also used the Sarmat-2 tactical vehicle even as the country's defence ministry released pictures of Russian warships, jets and tanks taking part in the exercise. Watch: The joint drill between Russia and Belarus involved at least 290 tanks including multiple launch rocket systems. The exercise began on Thursday and went on full gear on Friday even as President Putin said it was "not directed against anyone". Russia's ally Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko met Putin ahead of the exercise to deepen ties as the two leaders looked to sign integration agreements in November. The exercise has however alerted Poland which declared a state of emergency along the eastern border as Polish PM Morawiecki warned of possible "provocations". Estonia defence forces commander Martin Helem added that "this could actually happen in the coming year", referring to a possible Russian military attack on Estonia. Putin sought to downplay the drill even as he raised the Afghan issue, saying: "You can blame anything on Belarus, but at least take in the Afghans," the Russian president said while taking a dig at the EU. Western nations have imposed several sanctions on Belarus over the past 18 months as Lukashenko has tilted towards Putin for support. The exercise will continue until September 16 as Kremlin declared Putin would visit Belarus in November. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia uses robots, tactical vehicles during joint drill with Belarus

Belarus defence ministry has said that Russia has sent Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets for patrolling its border.

The two ex-Soviet nations are going to&nbsp;form a joint military training centre and&nbsp;fly joint missions.

The announcement comes a day ahead of a crucial summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko.

The two countries will also conduct military drills after two days. The European Union and NATO have already criticised the decision.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/direct-attack-european-union-accuses-belarus-of-using-migrants-as-political-weapon-406693">Also read |&nbsp;'Direct attack': European Union accuses Belarus of using migrants as political weapon</a>

Belarus has been increasingly isolated after Lukashenko's crackdown on protesters and the Ryanair fiasco in which a flight was diverted on an alleged bomb threat.

It has been at loggerheads with the West and has turned to traditional ally Russia for diplomatic and financial support.

Earlier, Minsk had said that Moscow ill provide it a huge military consignment including aircrafts, helicopters, and air defence systems.

Stopping short of a full merger, Belarus and Russia have signed a union agreement that calls for close political, economical, and military ties.

The Belarusian economy has been buttressed by Russia with cheap energy supplies and loans but ties between the two countries have often strained with Lukashenko scolding Moscow for trying to force him to relinquish control over prized economic assets and eventually abandon his country's independence.

Russia considers Belarus to be a buffer for security on its western flank against the European Union and NATO.

Belarus defence ministry has said that Russia has sent Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets for patrolling its border. The two ex-Soviet nations are going to form a joint military training centre and fly joint missions.

Belarus defence ministry has said that Russia has sent Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets for patrolling its border. The two ex-Soviet nations are going to form a joint military training centre and fly joint missions. The announcement comes a day ahead of a crucial summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko. The two countries will also conduct military drills after two days. The European Union and NATO have already criticised the decision. Also read | 'Direct attack': European Union accuses Belarus of using migrants as political weapon Belarus has been increasingly isolated after Lukashenko's crackdown on protesters and the Ryanair fiasco in which a flight was diverted on an alleged bomb threat. It has been at loggerheads with the West and has turned to traditional ally Russia for diplomatic and financial support. Earlier, Minsk had said that Moscow ill provide it a huge military consignment including aircrafts, helicopters, and air defence systems. Stopping short of a full merger, Belarus and Russia have signed a union agreement that calls for close political, economical, and military ties. The Belarusian economy has been buttressed by Russia with cheap energy supplies and loans but ties between the two countries have often strained with Lukashenko scolding Moscow for trying to force him to relinquish control over prized economic assets and eventually abandon his country's independence. Russia considers Belarus to be a buffer for security on its western flank against the European Union and NATO.

Russia sends Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets to Belarus border ahead of Putin-Lukasenko summit

President Vladimir Putin has ordered Russia's government to help Belarus fight western sanctions imposed during Minsk's crackdown on political opponents, the Kremlin said on Thursday.

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko travelled to Russia, a close ally, to hold talks with Russian leader and key ally Vladimir Putin&nbsp;as soaring tensions with the West have boosted his reliance on Moscow’s support.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lithuania-accused-belarus-of-using-refugees-and-illegal-migrants-as-political-weapon-397968/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Lukashenko has been hit with a slew of sanctions by Western nations but they appear to have had a limited effect on Lukashenko who maintains backing from key creditor&nbsp;Russia.

"Support for Belarus against the backdrop of such stifling sanctions is on the agenda, and the government has been given instructions and it is working in this regard," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

Russia and Belarus have a union agreement that envisages close political, economic, and military ties but stops short of a full merger.

Russia has pumped billions of dollars into shoring up the Soviet-style, state-controlled economy of Belarus with cheap energy supplies and loans.

Before last year’s election and protests, Lukashenko often accused the Kremlin of trying to force him to relinquish control of prized economic assets and eventually abandon his country’s independence.&nbsp;

Faced now with tougher economic sanctions, the Belarusian leader emphasized a need to jointly counter Western pressure.

“We will deal with terrorism and all that, but the economy is the most important thing,” Lukashenko said, voicing hope that “we will resist that economic blow together with Russia” and adding that the West will not succeed in trying to “monopolise the international agenda and put pressure on us.”

Peskov said the presidents agreed during their five hours of talks that Belarus would receive Russia’s natural gas next year at this year’s prices, the Interfax news agency reported.

The two also discussed terms for new Russian loans and steps to increase cooperation in energy, taxes and customs.

(With inputs from agencies)

President Vladimir Putin has ordered Russia's government to help Belarus fight western sanctions imposed during Minsk's crackdown on political opponents, the Kremlin said on Thursday.

President Vladimir Putin has ordered Russia's government to help Belarus fight western sanctions imposed during Minsk's crackdown on political opponents, the Kremlin said on Thursday. Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko travelled to Russia, a close ally, to hold talks with Russian leader and key ally Vladimir Putin as soaring tensions with the West have boosted his reliance on Moscow’s support. Lukashenko has been hit with a slew of sanctions by Western nations but they appear to have had a limited effect on Lukashenko who maintains backing from key creditor Russia. "Support for Belarus against the backdrop of such stifling sanctions is on the agenda, and the government has been given instructions and it is working in this regard," said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov. Russia and Belarus have a union agreement that envisages close political, economic, and military ties but stops short of a full merger. Russia has pumped billions of dollars into shoring up the Soviet-style, state-controlled economy of Belarus with cheap energy supplies and loans. Before last year’s election and protests, Lukashenko often accused the Kremlin of trying to force him to relinquish control of prized economic assets and eventually abandon his country’s independence. Faced now with tougher economic sanctions, the Belarusian leader emphasized a need to jointly counter Western pressure. “We will deal with terrorism and all that, but the economy is the most important thing,” Lukashenko said, voicing hope that “we will resist that economic blow together with Russia” and adding that the West will not succeed in trying to “monopolise the international agenda and put pressure on us.” Peskov said the presidents agreed during their five hours of talks that Belarus would receive Russia’s natural gas next year at this year’s prices, the Interfax news agency reported. The two also discussed terms for new Russian loans and steps to increase cooperation in energy, taxes and customs. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin orders government to help Belarus fight western sanctions

Russian police have removed Belarusian opposition politician Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya from their wanted list at the initiative of the Belarusian authorities.

It comes as&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;and Biden are to meet at a villa in Geneva on Wednesday with tensions high over a long list of disputes, from cyberattacks and election meddling to human rights violations.

Tsikhanouskaya fled into exile last year after Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko launched a crackdown on protesters who accused him of rigging his 2020 re-election, a vote Tsikhanouskaya's supporters say she won.

She later appeared on Russia's wanted list, something Russia's Interior Ministry said had happened through a mechanism outlined in a regional bloc that both Russia and Belarus are members of.

The exiled opposition politician could have faced up to 5 years in jail in Belarus if was detained and found guilty.

Belarus&nbsp;has been shaken by unprecedented mass protests since the disputed re-election last year of Alexander Lukashenko, who has ruled since 1994 with the support of Russia.

Lukashenko has responded with a crackdown on protesters, jailing many and forcing many others into exile.

Security forces have detained more than 13,000 people during a post-election crackdown, some of whom have been later freed. Lukashenko's key political opponents are either in jail or have fled abroad.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian police have removed Belarusian opposition politician Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya from their wanted list at the initiative of the Belarusian authorities. It comes as Putin and Biden are to meet at a villa in Geneva on Wednesday with tensions high over a long list of disputes, from cyberattacks and election meddling to human rights violations.

Russian police have removed Belarusian opposition politician Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya from their wanted list at the initiative of the Belarusian authorities. It comes as Putin and Biden are to meet at a villa in Geneva on Wednesday with tensions high over a long list of disputes, from cyberattacks and election meddling to human rights violations. Tsikhanouskaya fled into exile last year after Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko launched a crackdown on protesters who accused him of rigging his 2020 re-election, a vote Tsikhanouskaya's supporters say she won. She later appeared on Russia's wanted list, something Russia's Interior Ministry said had happened through a mechanism outlined in a regional bloc that both Russia and Belarus are members of. The exiled opposition politician could have faced up to 5 years in jail in Belarus if was detained and found guilty. Belarus has been shaken by unprecedented mass protests since the disputed re-election last year of Alexander Lukashenko, who has ruled since 1994 with the support of Russia. Lukashenko has responded with a crackdown on protesters, jailing many and forcing many others into exile. Security forces have detained more than 13,000 people during a post-election crackdown, some of whom have been later freed. Lukashenko's key political opponents are either in jail or have fled abroad. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia removes Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya from wanted list

russia-belarus-0

Russia Belarus, News on Russia Belarus, stories on Russia Belarus, articles on Russia Belarus, Russia Belarus stories at Wion, Russia Belarus news, Russia Belarus latest news

russia belarus-0