Russian President Vladimir Putin says tactical nuclear weapons will be stationed in neighbouring Belarus and that Iskander missile systems have already been sent to the nation that borders Ukraine. Russia has also helped Belarus convert 10 aircraft to carry tactical nuclear warheads and will begin training pilots next month. Putin likened this move to the US stationing nuclear weapons in Europe to keep non-nuclear powers from breaking their commitments. NATO has called the move “dangerous and irresponsible”, and the US State Department says it will continue to monitor the situation. On the battlefield, reports say Ukraine’s military forces are fighting back against Russian troops in the ongoing battle for Bakhmut, which has been ongoing for 7 months – the longest of the war. The city is the main point of attack for Russian forces, but British analysts say Russia appears to be shifting towards a defensive strategy. The situation remains uncertain, with the coming week seen as critical.