According to a statement by the Belarus Ministry of Defense, a joint nuclear exercise with Russia has begun. In the exercise, Belarusian soldiers carried out nuclear ammunition preparations for missile systems together with Russia. The Russian side conducted drills to bring nuclear weapon units to the highest combat readiness level. It was stated that air forces and missile units participated in the exercise, working on the delivery and preparation for the use of nuclear ammunition. The Belarusian administration claims that the exercise was planned, does not target third countries, and does not pose a threat to regional security. However, this development has increased security concerns in the region. In Ukraine and Western capitals, assessments are being made that the military integration between Belarus and Russia could escalate regional tensions.