An archive photo
MINSK, 28 October (BelTA) – The deployment of Russian missile systems Oreshnik [hazelnut] in Belarus is a measure in response to the escalation of the situation in the region and to modern threats. Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko made the relevant statement during the 3rd Minsk International Conference on Eurasian Security, BelTA has learned.
Aleksandr Lukashenko said: “The deployment of this weapon in Belarus is nothing but a measure in response to the escalation of the situation in the region and to modern threats. Please, let’s step away from it and talks about Oreshnik will stop. But they don’t want to. We don’t threaten anyone. We only take care of our own security. Moreover, we are always open to a constructive dialogue and mutual steps to reduce tensions. If our partners in the West are ready for it, then neither we nor Russia will remain in your debt!”
The head of state remarked that the deployment of medium-range missile systems Oreshnik in Belarus is a matter that excites individual fanatical politicians. “No aggressiveness!” he assured.
In confirmation of his words Aleksandr Lukashenko cited historic facts. In 1987 the USSR and the USA signed the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty after lengthy negotiations. This document became the most important element of the system designed to prevent the mutual destruction of the two blocs that were opposing each other at that time. However, the USA withdrew from the treaty in 2019. “A tragic step backwards was made,” the head of state remarked.
The president reminded that six years before he had suggested working out a multilateral political declaration on the non-deployment of intermediate-range and shorter-range missiles in Europe and making it open for any interested states to accede to it. “Regretfully, they simply didn’t want to hear Belarus’ proposal,” he said. “A number of European countries have already declared the intention to deploy intermediate-range missile systems. Why do you reproach us? It is one of the most dangerous kinds of weapons! The flight time is measured in minutes. In case of an error or a provocation, there will simply be no time to sort things out,” the Belarusian leader stated.
Follow us on:
