Belarus buys S-400, Iskander missiles from Russia: Lukashenko

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko announced on Thursday that his government had purchased Russian-made Iskander nuclear-capable missiles and S-400 anti-aircraft anti-missile systems.

The announcement came on the 85th day of Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine, with thousands killed. Belarus, Moscow’s main ally, has allowed Russian troops to use the country bordering Ukraine as a rear base.

“We’ve come to an agreement with (Russian President Vladimir) Putin,” Lukashenko said in remarks released by the Telegram channel of the Belarusian presidency.

He provided few details, only saying the Belarusian authorities bought as many Iskander missiles and S-400 systems as were “needed” for the army.

“With such weapons it’s a completely different army,” Lukashenko said.

“At the very least, this weapon can cause unacceptable, colossal damage.”

Lukashenko accused the West of embracing Nazi ideals and being “at war with Russia” in Ukraine earlier this month.