Do Wagner mercenaries in Belarus pose a real threat to Ukraine?
Serhii Naiev, Commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Lieutenant General (Photo: Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
The presence of Wagner Private Military Group (PMG) mercenaries in Belarus raise concerns about a potential danger to Ukraine. However, as of now, an immediate substantial threat isn't confirmed.
Serhii Naiev, Commander of the Joint Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Lieutenant General discussed this matter in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.
"Currently, there are up to 6,500 personnel from the Wagner PMG on the territory of the Republic of Belarus," he stated.
Additionally, Naiev pointed out that there are two concepts in military science - military danger and military threat.
"In civilian terms, if a vehicle is approaching, it's a danger, but if it's heading directly towards you, it's a threat," he added.
Considering this, the Commander of the Joint Forces explained that the presence of mercenaries in Belarus is indeed a potential danger. However, he emphasized that if these mercenaries were to form sabotage and reconnaissance groups or ground assault units, it would escalate into a genuine threat.
"Therefore, we aren't awaiting the formation of this threat; we are taking all necessary measures to enhance our defensive capabilities," he further commented.
Wagner PMG in Belarus
Following the failed coup attempt by Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin in June, a portion of his fighters arrived in Belarus.
Prime Minister of Poland Mateusz Morawiecki and Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda believe that Wagner mercenaries in Belarus could provoke incidents on the NATO countries' borders.
Meanwhile, within the Alliance, it has been stated that there's no direct or indirect threat perceived from these fighters.
