Ukraine addresses fears of possible invasion from Belarus
Ukraine assesses escalation risks on the Belarus border (photo: Getty Images)
Russia readies Belarus for a possible escalation, but there is currently no threat of a renewed invasion from the north. Ukraine's defense forces fully control the situation on the border, reports Andrii Kovalenko, head of the Center for Countering Disinformation at the National Security and Defense Council.
Belarus border situation
According to Kovalenko, the Russian leadership is preparing the Belarusian side for a possible escalation. Despite this, there is no immediate risk of a "here and now" attack from Belarusian territory.
"Yes, Russia prepares Belarus for a possible escalation, but our forces have everything under control. Here and now, an invasion from Belarus will not happen," the Center head emphasized.
He also added that although provocations in border areas are possible in theory, such actions would be a fatal mistake for the regime of Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko.
Statement from the Center for Countering #Disinformation regarding a possible renewed #Russian #invasion of #Ukraine from #Belarus pic.twitter.com/pPBWaezZSV
— RBC-Ukraine (@NewsUkraineRBC) April 19, 2026
Threat from Belarus
Recently, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a high-profile statement that Russia will once again attempt to draw Belarus into a direct war against Ukraine.
Based on intelligence data, Belarus is developing infrastructure on its territory, expanding roads toward the Ukrainian border, and preparing artillery positions, which may indicate preparations for future escalation.
In addition, commenting on Minsk's actions, the Ukrainian leader warned Alexander Lukashenko's regime against making mistakes. Experts explained that Zelenskyy hinted at a "Venezuelan outcome" for Lukashenko, warning of the inevitable loss of power and accountability in the event of direct involvement in the conflict on Russia's side.
The situation is also being aggravated by internal decisions within Belarus. In particular, self-proclaimed President Lukashenko signed a decree calling up reserve officers to the Armed Forces and border services.
This move is officially described as a planned measure, but it comes amid Lukashenko's repeated calls for officials to mobilize and prepare for difficult times.
At the same time, Ukrainian border guards and Defense Forces continue to strengthen the northern frontier, stating that the situation remains fully under control.
