russia Is Deploying “Oreshnik” in belarus, with Europe in the Crosshairs, – Says Head of the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine

russia is deploying in belarus the “Oreshnik” medium-range ballistic missile with Europe in the crosshairs.

This was announced by Head of the Foreign Intelligence Service Oleh Ivashchenko in a comment to Ukrinform.

“We are seeing preparations and deployment of the “Oreshnik” medium-range ballistic missile on the territory of belarus. russia and belarus are building military facilities for a launcher, surveillance and communication systems, which are elements of the “Oreshnik” system. However, to date, these measures have not been implemented yet,” he said.

According to Ivashchenko, russia can physically deploy a launcher in belarus. However, without the completion of other elements, it will only serve as a mock-up.

The Head of the Foreign Intelligence has said that even if “Oreshnik” is deployed on belarusian territory, minsk will have no rights or authority to use it. The “Oreshnik” medium-range ballistic missile will be part of the unified command system of the strategic missile forces.

According to the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine, the deployment of “Oreshnik” on belarusian territory is dictated by the desire to increase pressure on Europe and European countries, as well as to protect “Oreshnik” from attack, since the deployment of this weaponry in the European part of the rf makes it a legitimate target for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

“The deployment of “Oreshnik” on belarusian territory is a means of exerting pressure first of all on the EU and NATO, rather than on Ukraine. This move will allow russia to expand its capabilities to launch a surprise attack on the capital of any European country and significantly reduce the flight time of missiles compared to launches from the “Kapustin Yar” training range,” Ivashchenko stressed.