Russia deploys hypersonic missiles 'Oreshnik' in Belarus: what satellite images have shown.

According to ТСН: The Russian Federation has likely begun deploying new hypersonic ballistic missiles 'Oreshnik', capable of carrying nuclear weapons, at a former airbase in eastern Belarus. This is noted in a report being analyzed by American researchers based on satellite images.

Analytics from the Researchers

Researchers Jeffrey Lewis from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and Decker Evelette from the CNA analysis organization analyzed images from Planet Labs. They are 90% confident that Oreshnik mobile launchers may be deployed at a former airbase near the city of Krichev, which is approximately 307 km from Minsk and 478 km southwest of Moscow.

American researchers confirm that the review of Planet Labs images showed an active construction project that started between August 4 and 12, with features corresponding to those of Russia's strategic missile base.

According to Evelette, one of the 'distinctive signs' in the photo from November 19 is

'a military railroad transfer point'

Another feature is the preparation of a concrete pad at the end of the runway, which was later covered with earth. The researcher made a decision about this, marking it as

'a concealed launch point'

Lewis emphasized that the deployment of these missiles in Belarus has primarily political implications and indicates an increasing role of the nuclear factor in Russia's strategy of intimidating Europe.

Statements on the Deployment of 'Oreshnik'

Moreover, Vladimir Putin clearly expressed the intention to deploy 'Oreshnik' missiles in Belarus with a range of up to 5500 km. However, the specific location has not been indicated yet. Alexander Lukashenko mentioned the possibility of deploying up to 10 launchers, but American experts believe that the identified site may only accommodate three.

Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin assured that the deployment of 'Oreshnik' will not affect the balance of power in Europe and is

'our response'

'aggressive actions'

It should be noted that this process is taking place against the backdrop of the expiration of the New START treaty of 2010, which limits the deployment of strategic nuclear weapons. The likelihood of deploying these missiles may be aimed at deterring NATO countries from supplying Ukraine with weapons capable of striking deep into Russian territory.

It is known that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made a concerning statement about the 'Oreshnik' missiles in Belarus. He believes that this creates a dangerous precedent for global security. Ukraine is working on a joint response to these actions with international partners.

Zelensky emphasized that Kyiv has detailed information about the locations of 'Oreshniks' in Belarus and has shared it with Western allies. He also noted that destroying these missiles with ordinary drones will be difficult, and an effective countermeasure should be economic pressure on production.

Thus, the situation surrounding the deployment of 'Oreshnik' missiles in Belarus raises concerns not only in Ukraine but also throughout the European region. Information about new military installations adds tension in the context of existing military conflicts and security strategies employed by NATO member states in response to threats from Russia. The development of these events could significantly influence further actions of the international community regarding conflict resolution in the region.