Kremlin rules out suspending shipment of tactical nukes to Belarus despite criticism

MADRID, 27 Mar. (EUROPA PRESS) -

The Kremlin has ruled out reversing the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, announced on Saturday by Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the subject of criticism in recent hours by the main blocs and Western governments.

The Kremlin's main spokesman, Dimitri Peskov, has warned that this reaction "cannot affect Russia's plans", so Moscow maintains its intention to go ahead with a measure that may entail a reinforcement of the sanctions imposed by the European Union to the two neighboring countries, reports the Interfax agency.

Putin announced an agreement with Belarus for the deployment of short-range tactical nuclear weapons on Belarusian soil in response to Britain's intention to supply depleted uranium weapons to the Ukrainian army. According to Moscow, this step does not imply a violation of Russia's non-proliferation obligations.