Russian and Belarusian presidents Vladimir Putin and Alexander Lukashenko have signed the treaty on security guarantees within the Union State, a TASS correspondent reports.
The document outlines mutual obligations regarding defense, the protection of the sovereignty, independence, and constitutional order of Russia and Belarus, as well as ensuring the integrity and inviolability of the territory and external borders of the Union State. According to the Russian president, all available forces and means can be used to accomplish these tasks, including Russian tactical nuclear weapons deployed in Belarus.
Putin reminded that the conditions for the use of nuclear weapons are clearly outlined in Russia's updated nuclear doctrine, noting that they may be used for defensive purposes in response to a potential attack. The Russian leader also emphasized that the signed treaty on security guarantees "will enable the reliable protection of the security of Russia and Belarus, thus paving the way for the further peaceful and sustainable development of both states."