Russia's Decision to Deploy Tactical Nuclear Weapons in Belarus Contradicts Agreements with China: Bloomberg

Russian President Vladimir Putin's plans to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in neighboring Belarus do not alter the strategic balance of power in Europe. However, this decision contradicts promises made by Chinese President Xi Jinping, Bloomberg reports.

Former head of the Department of Safety Policy Control and Coordination at the IAEA, Tariq Rauf, is confident that Putin's decision raises doubts over the outcomes of the meeting with Xi. “He seems to be signaling to his domestic audience, trying to convince his own public that everything is fine with Russia and that the military operation in Ukraine is going well,” Rauf said.

The intention to position nuclear weapons in Belarus might indicate that Moscow and Beijing interpret their commitments differently, according to Bloomberg.

Former U.S. Ambassador Michael McFaul added that Russia's plans are “not respectful” towards “good friend” Xi. Following the meeting in Moscow, a joint statement from Russia and China emphasized that “all nuclear-armed states must refrain from deploying nuclear weapons abroad.” However, on March 25, Vladimir Putin announced plans to place tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, with the special storage facility expected to be completed by July 1.

According to the Russian President, this would not violate earlier non-proliferation commitments, as Russia does not intend to transfer nuclear weapons to Belarus.