Russian authorities released footage showing the Oreshnik missile system being deployed in Belarus, linking the move to heightened tensions after claims of an alleged attack on the residence of Russia’s top leader. The timing of the display has drawn international attention.
Missile System Shown on Belarusian Soil
The defence authorities said the Oreshnik missile system has now been delivered to Belarus from Russia. Video footage shows large missile transport vehicles, security units, and technical teams working together at newly prepared sites. According to official statements, the locations were set up in advance to allow the system to be placed on active combat duty.
Officials explained that Belarus had prepared the necessary infrastructure before the missiles arrived. This included secure areas for storing equipment, facilities for housing personnel, and locations suitable for combat patrols. Russian military staff are currently getting familiar with these patrol areas, learning routes and operational procedures.
Lukashenko confirms Russia deploys Oreshnik missiles to Belarus amid Ukraine talks
The Oreshnik system is described as a powerful ballistic missile platform. It is designed to travel long distances at very high speeds. Such systems are often used as part of strategic forces, meaning they are intended to send strong signals about military capability rather than being used in everyday combat.
Specialised teams involved in operating the missile system have reportedly completed retraining. These teams include launch crews, communication specialists, security staff, power supply units, drivers, and mechanics. The retraining took place using modern simulators and training equipment, allowing crews to practice without launching real missiles.
Defence officials stressed that all these steps were taken to ensure the system could operate smoothly and safely. They said the goal was to make sure personnel could respond quickly and correctly under any conditions.
Claims of an Attack and Rising Tensions
The demonstration follows claims by Russian officials that an attack was carried out against the residence of the country’s leader during the night of 28 to 29 December. According to official statements, the alleged strike was linked to growing tensions after high-level talks between Ukraine and the United States on a proposed peace plan.
Russian representatives said the reported attack would force a reassessment of their negotiating stance. They also warned that such actions would not be ignored. These statements were made publicly and widely reported, adding to the seriousness of the situation.
While no independent confirmation of the alleged attack has been provided, the claim itself has played a role in shaping the narrative around the missile deployment. By showing the Oreshnik system in Belarus soon after, Russian authorities appear to be emphasizing their military readiness and capabilities.
Belarus plays a key role in this context due to its close military cooperation with Russia. Hosting advanced missile systems on its territory places the country at the center of regional security concerns. Officials in Belarus have confirmed that the missile system was delivered from Russia and is now present in the country.
The presence of Russian military personnel alongside the system highlights the level of coordination between the two countries. Defence officials noted that housing and support arrangements for these personnel were prepared in advance, suggesting that the deployment was planned well before the recent statements about the alleged attack.
Background of the Oreshnik Missile System
Russian authorities have repeatedly mentioned the Oreshnik missile system. They first said it would enter active combat duty by the end of 2025. Recent announcements suggest parts of the system are already being deployed and demonstrated.
Earlier this year, reports said one Oreshnik missile was destroyed at a Russian test range in July. Ukrainian sources claimed intelligence agencies were involved. Despite this, Russian officials later said mass production of the system had begun.
The missile gained wider attention in November. This followed a strike on the Ukrainian city of Dnipro. Ukrainian air defence reported the use of a long-range ballistic missile. Russian authorities later confirmed it involved an Oreshnik system.
International officials, including those from the United States, also confirmed that a ballistic missile based on an existing long-range design was used. Ukrainian intelligence later suggested a related system may have been involved.
Russian officials have said the Oreshnik can hit key targets. These statements have added to concerns about escalation. The latest video focuses on readiness. It shows crews training and equipment being positioned. Authorities describe the deployment in Belarus as a routine step amid heightened tensions.
