Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that NATO should regard the medium-range Oreshnik missiles deployed by Russia in Belarus as legitimate military targets. This comment comes as part of his broader response to security concerns related to the deployment of these missile systems. Zelenskyy criticized Russia and Belarus, claiming they are orchestrating a 'show' regarding the Oreshnik missiles, as the complete missile system has not yet been installed in Belarus, only the vehicles related to the system's operation.

In his remarks during an interview with a Belarusian opposition outlet, Zelenskyy emphasized that this military maneuver is aimed at intimidating European nations. He expressed concerns over the potential escalation that could occur if NATO does not address the threat posed by these missiles. Zelenskyy also asserted that Ukraine would independently assess the threat posed by the Oreshnik system and warned that Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko may be sidelined in the discussions, as Russia could proceed with further deployment without his consent.

This statement by Zelenskyy, made at the World Economic Forum in Davos, highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe and the implications of Russia's military actions in Belarus. It reflects a broader context of Ukraine's precarious security situation and the role of NATO in regional defense strategies as they confront Russian aggression.