“We will complete the construction of a special storage facility for tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus by the beginning of July,” Putin told Russia 1, a state-owned Russian television channel.

Russia has already transferred an Iskander short-range missile system to Belarus, he added.

He also said Moscow had helped Belarus convert 10 aircraft to make them capable of carrying tactical nuclear warheads.

In February 2022, Russian forces were permitted to stage part of the invasion of Ukraine from Belarusian territory.

Lukashenko stated that Belarusian troops could take part in the invasion if needed.

Belarus has also stated that Russia can bring its nuclear weapons onto Belarusian soil. (ILKHA)