Since the onset of the conflict, Belarus has been providing significant military assistance to Russia, including the use of its territory and military infrastructure. This support extends to enhancing signals for enemy aerial systems, according to Andriy Demchenko, a spokesperson for the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine.
Demchenko noted that Belarus has been facilitating the deployment of signal boosters for enemy aircraft, which can be both stationary installations within Belarus and airborne devices such as balloons. Recently, a balloon carrying a relay transmitter entered Ukrainian airspace while Russia was conducting drone strikes, indicating a coordinated effort to support military operations.
Despite ongoing tensions, Demchenko emphasized that military activity in Belarus remains high, with continued enhancements to logistical routes and the establishment of military training grounds and bases.
He pointed out that the threat from Belarus has not diminished, as the Minsk government previously announced the formation of a Southern Operational Command aimed at the Ukrainian border. This move, according to Demchenko, serves as a strategic shift to place responsibility on Ukraine, suggesting it poses a threat to Belarus, which he firmly rejected, stating that Ukraine has never threatened Belarus.
Demchenko also mentioned that the infrastructure being developed by Belarus near the Ukrainian border could potentially be exploited by Russian forces. However, he clarified that there are currently no Russian military units stationed in Belarus capable of launching a renewed invasion.
Despite this, he expressed concern over the ongoing collaboration between Minsk and Moscow, reminiscent of past instances where Belarus provided its territory and resources for Russian military operations. This collaboration continues to pose a potential threat, he warned.
Andriy Kovalенко, head of the Central Department of the National Security and Defense Council, stated that there is no immediate threat of invasion from Belarus. He acknowledged the ongoing military activity, particularly in fortifying positions, but suggested that these actions could be merely for show, with close monitoring in place.
Demchenko added that Ukrainian defense forces are positioned near the Belarusian border, with ongoing engineering work to strengthen defenses, including fortifications and mine barriers. He noted that Russia may be exerting pressure on Belarus to engage more actively in the conflict, although it appears that Belarus is resisting such involvement.
Furthermore, Demchenko warned that Belarus could engage in destabilizing actions or provocations along the border without committing to a full-scale invasion.
Belarus continues to bolster its military support for Russia, utilizing its territory and infrastructure while enhancing aerial signals for enemy operations. Despite claims of no immediate invasion threat, ongoing military activity and fortifications near the Ukrainian border raise concerns about potential provocations.