Overview
- Russia and Belarus released official footage and statements announcing the Oreshnik system’s activation on Belarusian soil, without disclosing numbers or exact locations.
- Independent researchers using satellite imagery say the missiles and mobile launchers are likely staged at the disused Krichev airbase in eastern Belarus.
- Officials in Moscow and Minsk tout hypersonic speeds near Mach 10 and ranges reported up to about 5,000–5,500 km with conventional or nuclear warheads, though some Western officials remain skeptical.
- Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has said up to 10 systems will be stationed in the country, and officers reported launch units beginning patrols and training routines.
- The deployment follows Russia’s disputed claim of a Ukrainian drone strike on Vladimir Putin’s residence and coincides with Trump–Zelenskyy talks that have yet to produce a breakthrough.