Russia has rejected the criticisms directed by U.S. President Joe Biden regarding Moscow's plan to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, stating that "Washington has been deploying similar nuclear weapons in Europe for decades." The Russian embassy in the United States stated that it is "the sovereign right of Russia and Belarus to ensure their security by means they deem necessary, in light of the large-scale hybrid war being waged against us by Washington."
The embassy added, "The measures we are taking are fully in line with our international legal obligations." It described the U.S. criticism of Moscow's plan as "hypocritical," saying, "Before blaming others, Washington could look at itself." It emphasized, "The United States has maintained a large arsenal of nuclear weapons in Europe for decades" and is participating with its NATO allies in nuclear sharing arrangements and exercises on scenarios involving the use of nuclear weapons against our country."
The United States previously stated that "the world is facing the most serious nuclear threats since the Cuban missile crisis in 1962, due to statements by Russian President Vladimir Putin during the conflict in Ukraine." However, Moscow claims that its stance has been misinterpreted.
