Putin visits Belarus for two-day state visit with close ally | World News

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s diplomatic tour continues as he arrived in Belarus for a two-day visit on Thursday. This visit marks the beginning of his fifth term in office and highlights the strong ties between Russia and its neighboring ally, Belarus.

Putin’s visit to Belarus comes after recent trips to China earlier this month and an upcoming visit to Uzbekistan on Sunday. The Russian president has been busy engaging with various world leaders, including hosting Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in the Kremlin.

During his visit to Belarus, Putin is set to hold talks with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. The two leaders discussed security and economic issues, with Lukashenko emphasizing the importance of their strategic partnership.

The appointment of Maj. Gen. Pavel Muraveyka as the new chief of Belarus’ General Staff and first deputy defense minister is seen as a move to demonstrate loyalty to Russia. Muraveyka has a history of making bold statements, including threats towards NATO members Poland and Lithuania.

The deployment of Russian tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus has raised concerns in the West, with analysts viewing the move as a potential flashpoint in any confrontation between Russia and NATO. The presence of these weapons extends Russia’s capability to target NATO allies in Eastern and Central Europe.

Overall, Putin’s visit to Belarus underscores the close relationship between the two countries and the strategic importance of Belarus in Russia’s foreign policy objectives. The ongoing military drills involving tactical nuclear weapons further highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region.