**Belarus Seeks Russian Missile Systems**
Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko plans to deploy 10 Russian missile systems in Belarus. This was reported by pro-Kremlin journalist Alexander Yunashev on his Telegram channel, Yunashev Live.
The “Oreshnik” is a type of missile that Russia claims can avoid advanced air defense systems. It’s an intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM).
When asked about the deployment during a recent summit, Lukashenko said he expects 10 missile systems from Russia. He added that if Russia wants to deploy more, Belarus will do the same.
**Missile Expert Weighs In**
Defense expert Fabian Hoffmann says the Oreshnik is likely not a new Russian development. Instead, it’s a modification of an older missile called the RS-26 or Rubezh.
Hoffmann claims that Russia just took apart the RS-26 and put together the Oreshnik with some upgrades and a new paint job.
**Russia’s Military Activities**
Meanwhile, Ukrainian troops reportedly hit a Russian command post in the town of Lgov in Kursk Oblast overnight on Dec. 25.
Russian forces also struck a market in Nikopol, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, with a drone on Dec. 26, injuring eight people.
In other news, Russian companies are increasingly using Bitcoin and other digital currencies for international payments due to Western sanctions.
**Global Response**
U.S. President Joe Biden directed the Pentagon to continue its surge of weapons deliveries to Ukraine in response to Russia’s mass attack on Christmas Day.
President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Ukraine peace envoy, Keith Kellogg, denounced Russia’s actions, saying “Christmas should be a time of peace.”
The Ukrainian Air Force also struck a plant that produces solid propellant for ballistic missiles in Kamensk-Shakhtynsky, Rostov Oblast, on Dec. 26.
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