Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed plans to discuss exercises on the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons with Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko during a meeting in Minsk.

Putin, who arrived in the Belarusian capital on May 23rd, stated: "Of course, we will talk about the second phase of the exercises (testing the use of non-strategic nuclear weapons), which directly involves our Belarusian friends and colleagues in the military sphere."

The agenda for the meeting is extensive, covering various topics such as industrial cooperation, energy, agriculture, and security issues. Putin noted that after his negotiations with Arab leaders, he held a significant meeting with government members, discussing his visit to Belarus and touching upon almost all areas of cooperation.

"After the negotiations with our Arab friends, I had a big meeting with the government members, and we talked about my visit to you as well. We touched upon almost all areas [in our conversation] – including industrial co-operation, energy, agriculture, and security issues. There were probably a half of all government members present. Some of them will come and participate in the negotiations tomorrow. Those who are not coming have sent greetings and the best wishes to Belarus,” Putin remarked.

He acknowledged the progress made by their colleagues with the direct involvement and support of President Lukashenko. Putin emphasized the importance of discussing security issues, which have been a focal point in their bilateral relationship. "Everything is developing in a sustained fashion, it is all going well with us," he added.

The meeting between the two leaders signifies the ongoing cooperation and strategic alignment between Russia and Belarus, particularly in the realm of military exercises and security collaboration. (ILKHA)