Russia planning attacks on Ukraine from Belarus and Bryansk region, Zelenskyy warns
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Getty Images)
Russia is considering scenarios for attacks on Ukraine through the Chernihiv-Kyiv direction from Belarus and the Bryansk region, stated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The head of state spoke about the results of the meeting of the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief with military, intelligence agencies, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), and the Foreign Ministry, where officials discussed developments along the Belarus-Bryansk region direction.
"Of course, we are already working to strengthen our defense in this direction. Relevant instructions have been given to the military command, but separately we are also taking preventive steps regarding both Belarus and specific parts of Russia from where the threat originates," the President said.
Zelenskyy added that he expects active work from Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry regarding Belarus, including increased pressure and stronger coordination with Ukraine’s partners.
"Frankly speaking, we are already tired of this constant threat to Ukraine that at some point the Russians may drag Belarus into the war. They should understand: the consequences for them will come, and they will be significant," he stressed.
The head of state said intelligence agencies have also received additional non-public tasks related to this threat. Zelenskyy added that Ukraine has specific capabilities to respond to any threat coming from Russian territory.
Russia has intensified attempts to draw Belarus into the war against Ukraine and discussed the issue with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.
On Monday, May 18, Belarus launched military drills involving the combat use of nuclear weapons and support for nuclear forces. Russia is also participating in the exercises.
The Institute for the Study of War noted that Russia is conducting nuclear drills to demonstrate strength to Ukraine’s allies and pressure them. In addition, the Kremlin is trying to divert attention from the failures of the Russian army on the battlefield.
