Russia Arms Belarus With Missiles as China Drills Taiwan

MINSK, BELARUS & TAIPEI, TAIWAN

Russia has deployed nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile systems in Belarus, marking a significant escalation in military cooperation between Moscow and Minsk. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko confirmed that multiple advanced missile systems, capable of reaching deep into NATO territory, are now in active service near the western border, a move framed by Russian President Vladimir Putin as strengthening deterrence amid ongoing tensions surrounding Ukraine. Western officials have expressed concern that stationing long-range weapons in Belarus could heighten regional instability and shorten NATO warning times. The deployment comes alongside Belarus’s public support for China’s territorial stance over Taiwan, reflecting closer alignment with both Moscow and Beijing.

Simultaneously, China has conducted its largest military exercises in years around Taiwan, in operations dubbed “Justice Mission 2025.” The drills involved dozens of warships, fighter jets, and missile launches, with Chinese forces entering waters near Taiwan and crossing the Taiwan Strait median line. Taiwan’s defense authorities reported heightened alert as the maneuvers tested blockade scenarios, joint warfare capabilities, and long-range strike operations. Taipei condemned the drills as provocative, while Beijing insisted the operations were intended to deter separatism and foreign interference following a recent U.S. arms deal with Taiwan. Regional neighbors and U.S. officials also voiced concern over China’s assertive posturing in the Indo-Pacific.

Analysts note that these developments underscore rising global security tensions on two fronts: Europe’s eastern flank and East Asia. Russia’s missile deployment in Belarus signals a willingness to extend strategic weapons beyond its borders, complicating NATO defense planning, while China’s military drills reinforce its claims over Taiwan and demonstrate preparedness to respond to perceived challenges from the U.S. and its allies. Both actions, occurring at the close of 2025, set the stage for heightened diplomatic and security engagements as 2026 begins.

This dual escalation in Europe and the Indo-Pacific highlights a volatile international landscape, with Moscow and Beijing asserting military strength while Western powers and regional actors watch closely, anticipating the potential for further tensions in the coming year.

Discover More Bangladesh Mourns Khaleda Zia & Iran Protests Expand