Reports indicate that Russia is considering establishing drone launch bases in Belarus, a move that could heighten the threat to Ukraine. Ukrainian Defense Ministry advisor Serhiy “Flash” Beskrestnov has claimed that these reports distort the actual situation.
According to sources citing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the proposed bases would enable Russia to conduct more frequent and dangerous strikes. The potential locations for these bases are just 440 kilometers from Kyiv, significantly reducing the response time for Ukrainian air defense.
Forbes has reported plans for at least four ground control stations for drones to be set up in Belarus. Zelensky noted that the aggressor nation intends to continue using Belarusian territory to establish infrastructure for managing long-range drones.
Additionally, media reports suggest that Russia may also deploy advanced ballistic missiles in Belarus.
In response to the media coverage, Beskrestnov stated, “I have no information regarding the construction of airfields for launching Shahed drones from Belarus. I am shocked by the distortion of information. Such misrepresentation unfortunately exerts psychological pressure on our people, who are already facing significant challenges.”
He clarified that on February 23, Zelensky mentioned that there were four control points for long-range Shahed drones in Belarus, but Ukraine had destroyed these antennas. However, there are indications that Russia may attempt to replicate this setup.
Beskrestnov further asserted that the Forbes article misinterpreted Zelensky’s comments, mislabeling the drone control antennas as “long-range bases.”
Russia's plans to establish drone launch bases in Belarus have raised alarms in Ukraine, with officials disputing the accuracy of media reports. The proximity of these bases to Kyiv could pose a significant threat, prompting concerns over air defense capabilities.