Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko that he has one week to dismantle Russian drone relay stations operating from Belarusian territory, or Ukraine will take action. This statement was made during a joint press conference with Honduran President Nasry Asfura in Kyiv.
Zelensky criticized Lukashenko for claiming he does not wish to be involved in the conflict, stating that the reality is much graver. He emphasized that Belarus has been complicit in the war since its inception, with missiles launched from its territory resulting in civilian casualties.
“When Mr. Lukashenko says he does not want to be involved in the war, he must be honest with his people because it is not just him who could be drawn into this conflict; it could be his entire country, dragged in by Russia,” Zelensky noted.
The Ukrainian leader further asserted that Russia continues to pressure Lukashenko to engage more deeply in the conflict, and he has made it clear that Ukraine will respond if necessary. Zelensky specifically pointed to the relay stations on Belarusian soil that are used to direct attacks on Ukrainian cities.
“He can remove this equipment. Why make statements about not wanting to be at war? He has a week to do this. Every day, our civilians are dying because of this,” Zelensky stated.
Additionally, Zelensky urged Lukashenko to halt the supply of petroleum products that are utilized by Russian forces in their operations against Ukraine. He underscored that Belarus is a key supplier for the Russian military.
“He controls this supply chain. It is within his power to stop it,” Zelensky added.
The backdrop to these comments includes ongoing concerns that Russia is attempting to draw Belarus into the conflict more directly, potentially targeting NATO countries. Ukrainian military officials have identified numerous targets within Belarus as a precaution against possible aggression.
- Previously, Zelensky indicated that Russia is making efforts to involve Belarus in the war.
- Ukrainian military leaders have outlined 500 potential targets in Belarus in response to threats.
- Lukashenko has threatened to strike a significant target in Ukraine, claiming to have its coordinates.
- Despite his aggressive rhetoric, Lukashenko has also expressed a desire to avoid military action and has apologized to Zelensky for his harsh words.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has given Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko a week to dismantle Russian drone relay stations on Belarusian soil. Zelensky's comments reflect the ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Belarus, as he warns of potential consequences if Lukashenko fails to act.