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Belarus Airborne Rehearses Nuclear Use, Claims No Threat

5/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Belarus's defence ministry announced that its Airborne Forces rehearsed nuclear weapon use on May 18, 2026, with Russian cooperation.
The drills were intended to improve personnel training, test readiness, and organise combat operations from unplanned areas.
The ministry said the exercises are not directed at any state and pose no regional security threat.
President Vladimir Putin reiterated that Moscow retains control over the nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus.

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Story summary

Belarus's defence ministry announced that its Airborne Forces rehearsed nuclear weapon use on May 18, 2026, with Russian cooperation.
The drills were intended to improve personnel training, test readiness, and organise combat operations from unplanned areas.
The ministry said the exercises are not directed at any state and pose no regional security threat.
President Vladimir Putin reiterated that Moscow retains control over the nuclear weapons stationed in Belarus.