Ukraine Reduces Air Threat by Neutralizing Belarus-Based Russian Systems, Says Zelenskyy

Technical Equipment Neutralized in Belarus

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reported the successful neutralization of some Russian technical equipment located in Belarus, which Moscow had been using to coordinate air attacks against Ukraine. According to Zelenskyy, this equipment specifically helped Russian drones plot attack routes across Ukraine's northern border. While this operation has yielded results, the threat from the 'Oreshnik' missile complex, also deployed in Belarus, remains active and significant.

“Ukraine has been working on this issue and found a way to deal with some antennas to reduce the scale of attacks against us,” the President noted.

He further stressed that the issue of the 'Oreshnik' system cannot be addressed as quietly as the antennas in Belarus were. “Our intelligence indicates that 'Oreshnik' is already there, either fully or partially. Preparatory and technical work has been completed there,” Zelenskyy added.

Escalating Situation and Northern Threats

The situation is further complicated by Russia having spent years establishing aerial corridors for strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Concurrently, expert Serhiy Beskrestnov links systematic attacks on railway logistics to actions by Minsk, indicating Belarus's active participation in military operations. He stated that although 'Shahed' drones enter from Russia, they are guided from within the Republic of Belarus.

• “Two days ago, Shaheds attacked a train and then struck a repair crew,” Beskrestnov pointed out.

The Armed Forces of Ukraine continue to monitor threats from the north and are taking measures to mitigate risks, including striking the Kapustin Yar range in Russia. According to late 2025 intelligence, equipment for guiding 'Shahed' drones had been installed on the roofs of residential apartment buildings in Belarusian border areas, underscoring the serious threat Belarus poses within the conflict.

This development is significant as it highlights the expanding front of the war and a deteriorating regional security situation. Belarus's direct role provides Russia with a strategic northern launchpad into Ukraine. While neutralizing the technical equipment is a crucial step in reducing risks, the ongoing threat from systems like 'Oreshnik' remains high, emphasizing the need for continued military action and strengthened Ukrainian defenses on its northern flank.