Title: Lukashenko: The World "Closer to Nuclear War" Than Ever

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko stated today that "the world has never been closer to the brink of nuclear war than it is now." He affirmed that "the statements of Western politicians are escalating tensions, not only on the European continent but across the entire world." He emphasized that "tactical nuclear weapons are deterrent and defensive weapons, and no one will use them for an attack." He pointed out that "the expansion of blocs and military alliances at the expense of the security of other countries, as well as the unprecedented buildup of NATO's capabilities in our region, is worsening the situation."