All top stories · This edition

Belarus launches nuclear drills with Russia; Ukraine condemns move

May 18, 2026

Summary

Belarus announced its armed forces began training exercises involving Russian nuclear weapons, drawing strong condemnation from Ukraine and NATO allies. Kyiv decried the drills as Russia 'de facto legitimizing' its nuclear presence.

How coverage differs

  • Left: Belarus-Russia nuclear drills dangerously legitimize global proliferation threat Left-leaning outlets report on Belarus's launch of military drills involving Russian tactical nuclear weapons, emphasizing the international condemnation from Ukraine and NATO allies. They also note Belarus's dismissal of concerns regarding these joint exercises with Russia.
  • Center: Belarus Conducts Nuclear Drills with Russia, Ukraine Condemns Move Center outlets report that Belarus has commenced military drills involving Russian tactical nuclear weapons, as announced by Minsk. They note that these exercises have drawn criticism from Ukraine and other international actors.

Coverage by lane

Left

  • Belarus launches drills involving Russian nuclear weapons
  • Belarus dismisses concerns as it launches joint nuclear drills with Russia

Center

  • Belarus holds drills with Russian nuclear weapons, drawing criticism from Ukraine

More from this edition

  • DOJ creates $1.7B ‘Anti-Weaponization Fund’; Trump drops $10B IRS suit
  • Shakira wins $64 million tax fraud case against Spanish government
  • Trump-backed candidates win Louisiana Senate primary; rattle GOP establishment
  • Trump Halts Iran Strike Planned Tuesday; Oil Prices Volatile After Gulf Request
  • Israeli Navy Intercepts Gaza-Bound Flotilla Off Cyprus
  • ICE Agent Charged in Nonfatal Minneapolis Shooting of Venezuelan Immigrant
  • LIRR strike costs millions, snarls commutes on third day
  • Cuba warns US: ‘Bloodbath’ if military action follows drone claims