Putin Announces Belarus's Participation in Second Phase of Nuclear Exercises

Belarus will join Russia in the second phase of training exercises involving the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons, according to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"Since non-strategic nuclear weapons are located on Belarusian territory, we have invited our friends and allies this time. President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus requested to participate in this phase of the exercises," said the Russian leader.

"This time, the exercises are being conducted in three phases. In the second phase, our Belarusian partners will join our joint operations, and corresponding instructions have been given to the ministries of defense and chief staffs," Putin added.