Ukraine's President Warns of Belarus War Threat, Promises Comprehensive Response

President Zelenskyy's Concerns Over Belarus

According to Главком: During a private meeting with journalists, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed serious concern about the risk of Belarus being drawn into the war against Ukraine. He noted that in 2022, Belarus permitted Russia to use its territory for launching assaults and missile strikes against Ukraine. Specifically, Russia has utilized Belarusian airspace and territory for logistical support of attacks, including drone launches targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Ukraine is now taking measures to counter and degrade the effectiveness of this military infrastructure. This warning comes as Belarus remains Russia's closest military ally, hosting Russian troops and weaponry since the invasion began.

Ukraine's Strategic Plans Regarding Belarus

Zelenskyy emphasized that new weaponry, including the 'Oreshnik' system, could be deployed on Belarusian soil. He also stated that Ukraine has previously targeted the Kapustin Yar site in Russia, where related weapons are stored. The President announced his intention to appoint a special envoy for Belarusian affairs and confirmed that the Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers has terminated the agreement on cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters with the Republic of Belarus.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed the importance of warning Belarus about the potential risks associated with its deeper involvement in the conflict. He expressed hope that Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and other representatives of Belarusian opposition forces could convey this information to European and other international partners. According to Zelenskyy, if Russia succeeds in fully involving Belarus in the war, it would have severe consequences for regional stability.

President Zelenskyy's statements underscore the critical geopolitical situation in the region, where Belarus, as a Russian ally, could play a significant role in the future trajectory of the conflict.

Given the history of Belarusian territory being used for aggressive actions against Ukraine, Kyiv believes it must take all possible measures to prevent further escalation. The decision to terminate the cooperation agreement with Belarus signals the seriousness of the Ukrainian government's intent to ensure national security and regional stability.