Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has raised concerns about Russia’s attempts to involve Belarus in its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Citing intelligence reports, Zelensky indicated that there is evidence of Russian troop movements aimed at bolstering their forces.
During a briefing on April 17, following a report from the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Oleksandr Syrskyi, Zelensky noted that the Russian military appears to be regrouping, likely to address personnel shortages. He stated, “It is becoming increasingly clear why the activity of armed forces has intensified in Belarusian territory.”
According to the intelligence gathered, there are developments in Belarus, including road constructions near the Ukrainian border and the establishment of artillery positions. Zelensky warned that these actions suggest Russia may attempt to draw Belarus into its military operations once more.
The President has instructed relevant channels to caution the Belarusian leadership about Ukraine’s readiness to defend its territory and sovereignty. He remarked, “The nature and consequences of recent events in Venezuela should deter the Belarusian leadership from making mistakes.”
In a meeting on April 1 with over 300 military personnel, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko stated that the country is preparing for war. He emphasized, “There can be no peace time. We are preparing for war. People in this audience, and not only here, must understand that we are categorically against war, especially our officers and soldiers, as we know what war entails.”
The Lukashenko regime has been conducting continuous military exercises amid escalating tensions with the West and the ongoing full-scale war initiated by Russia against Ukraine, which has received support from Minsk. The invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 was facilitated in part by the use of Belarusian territory.
While Belarus has not directly participated in the conflict against Ukraine, its government has allowed Russian troops to use its territory for transit and deployment, and strikes against Ukraine have been launched from Belarusian soil.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed concerns over increased Russian military activity in Belarus, suggesting attempts to involve the country in the ongoing conflict. Intelligence reports indicate troop movements and military preparations in Belarus, prompting warnings from Ukraine's leadership.