Lukashenko Asserts Belarusian Authority Over Nuclear Weapons, Downplaying Putin's Exclusive Control

Context of Nuclear Deployment in Belarus

The deployment of Russian tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus commenced in 2023, a move announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin in March 2023. This decision followed a 2022 constitutional referendum in Belarus that removed the country's previously enshrined non-nuclear and neutral status. The agreement formalizing the stationing of these weapons was signed by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin on May 25, 2023. While Russian officials, including Shoigu, initially stated that Moscow would retain exclusive control over the weapons and any decisions regarding their use, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has presented a different perspective.

Lukashenko's Assertions of Control

Since the initial deployment, President Lukashenko has made several statements suggesting a more active Belarusian role in the potential use of these weapons. In June 2023, he declared that Belarus had already received some of Russia's tactical nuclear weapons and stated he 'wouldn't hesitate' to order their use if Belarus faced aggression. He clarified that while he would consult with Putin, they could communicate 'at any moment' and he would not 'look around' if war started. Lukashenko also reportedly instructed his high-ranking officials to develop an 'algorithm for the use' of these weapons.

Further emphasizing this stance, in December 2024, Lukashenko claimed that Belarus was hosting 'dozens' of Russian nuclear weapons and would prepare facilities for Russia's newest hypersonic ballistic missile, the Oreshnik. He asserted that Belarus would determine targets for these weapons and 'push the button together' with Russia. In August 2025, he reiterated his readiness to use nuclear weapons in case of military aggression against Belarus, stating he had signed an order regulating their handling and that 'targets are determined'.

Implications and International Reactions

Lukashenko has consistently framed the presence of these nuclear weapons as a deterrent against potential aggression, particularly from the West. His statements, however, have created ambiguity regarding the command and control structure of these weapons, contrasting with Russia's official position of retaining full control. The deployment marks the first time Russia has stationed its nuclear weapons on another state's territory since the collapse of the Soviet Union. The move has been viewed by some as a psychological operation aimed at influencing Western support for Ukraine and has raised concerns about nuclear proliferation and regional stability.