Russia and Belarus Confirm Nuclear Weapons Option
Russia and Belarus have stated their readiness to use all available means, including nuclear weapons, to ensure their security. The UN warns the war is deadlier than ever.
Russia and Belarus have confirmed their readiness to employ nuclear weapons to guarantee their security. Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin told the newspaper Izvestia that both nations can utilize all available means, including nuclear arms, to ensure the security of their "union state." He referenced joint military exercises and readiness checks between the countries.
According to the United Nations, the war in Ukraine has become deadlier than at any point since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. UN Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo urged both parties to return to diplomacy in the UN Security Council, calling for an immediate, complete, and unconditional ceasefire.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been pursuing new peace initiatives and has discussed potential diplomatic efforts with representatives from the United States. Russia's UN Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya characterized Zelenskyy's offer for direct talks with President Putin as a provocation.
Meanwhile, reports indicate Russia's "shadow fleet" is increasing its security personnel in response to stricter Western sanctions and vessel detentions. The fleet is reportedly circumventing oil trade sanctions.
On a regional level, rocket and drone attacks by Russia have resulted in casualties in Ukraine's Kharkiv region. Ukraine's allies are calling for increased air defense support.