Russia may launch new operations against Ukraine and NATO from Belarus, Zelenskyy says
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Getty Images)
Russia has intensified efforts to draw Belarus deeper into military actions against Ukraine. This involves additional contacts between Russian officials and Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
Russia is increasing pressure on Belarus
Zelenskyy said Ukraine documents Moscow’s attempts to draw Belarus deeper into the war against Ukraine.
According to available information, additional contacts have taken place between Russian representatives and Alexander Lukashenko, aimed at persuading Minsk to participate in new aggressive actions.
Possible directions of operations
According to the Ukrainian President, the Russian side is considering several scenarios for military operations that could be launched either in the southern or northern direction from Belarusian territory.
This could involve potential strikes against the Chernihiv-Kyiv direction or even against one of the NATO countries from the Belarusian direction.
Ukrainian intelligence data
Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine has information about the details of contacts between Russia and Belarus.
According to him, this intelligence is being taken into account when assessing potential threats and planning defensive measures.
The Ukrainian President said the country would be prepared to defend itself if such plans were implemented.
He added that he had instructed the Defense and Security Forces to strengthen the relevant direction and prepare a response plan.
According to Zelenskyy, the plan will be reviewed and approved during a meeting of the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief.
Earlier, Zelenskyy also stated that Ukraine expects stronger air defense protection before the start of summer. According to him, this should be supported by the creation of a European anti-ballistic coalition and new steps within the PURL program aimed at strengthening the country’s defense capabilities and improving air defense efficiency.
Zelenskyy also said he had instructed Ukraine’s Defense Forces and intelligence agencies to prepare response measures following the large-scale Russian attack that took place on May 13 and 14.
