The president of Ukraine warns of increased Russian military activity and possible new use of Belarus as a base of operations in the war.
In a new statement that raises tensions around the developments on the Ukrainian front, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warns of indications of a redeployment of Russia’s military forces and increased activity in parts of Belarus. According to what he said, Ukraine is closely monitoring moves that include reinforcing infrastructure near the border and preparing possible firing positions, raising concerns about a new chapter of escalation in the north. At the same time, Kyiv is reported to have already proceeded with diplomatic warnings to Minsk, underlining its readiness to defend its territorial integrity in the event of any evolution.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky said that, according to a report from the top military commander, Russia appears to be regrouping its forces.
In 2022, Belarus served as the main base for the Russian invasion
At the same time, he stressed that the Ukrainian side believes that Moscow may again attempt to involve Belarus in the war, according to Reuters.
He said there was increased military activity of Russian forces in Belarus, including the construction of roads near the border with Ukraine and the establishment of artillery positions.
Zhelensky said Ukraine had issued instructions to warn the Belarusian leadership about Ukraine’s “readiness to defend its territory and independence.”
Recall that at the beginning of the war in Ukraine in 2022, Belarus acted as a key base for the Russian invasion, allowing the passage of troops and equipment from its territory to northern Ukraine, including in the direction of Kiev. It also provided infrastructure, airfields and airspace for Russian operations and missile launches. Although it did not directly participate with its own forces in the fighting, its support was considered critical in the initial phase of the Russian invasion.
