Ukraine tells UN why Belarus must stay out of Russia’s war
Permanent Representative of Ukraine to the UN Andrii Melnyk (Photo: Vitalii Nosach – RBC-Ukraine)
Ukraine’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Andrii Melnyk, has stated that a potential attack from Belarus would have devastating consequences for the regime of Alexander Lukashenko. At the same time, Kyiv is closely monitoring Russia’s attempts to draw Minsk even deeper into the war, according to the UN press service.
Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting, Melnyk emphasised that the Belarusian authorities have effectively allowed Russia to use their territory, military infrastructure, and airspace for aggression against Ukraine.
He also warned of growing threats due to joint military exercises, mobilisation measures, and the deployment of advanced missile systems in Belarus.
The Ukrainian diplomat emphasised that in the event of a new invasion from the north, Ukraine would act in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter on the right to self-defence.
Melnyk said any attack from the north will provoke an immediate and decisive response, and the regime in Minsk will face devastating consequences.
He also called on the UN Security Council to increase pressure on Russia and Belarus to prevent further escalation of the war.
As is known, the topic of a Belarusian army offensive on Ukraine has gained traction recently. However, opinions on this matter vary.
For example, analysts at the Institute for the Study of War have stated that there are currently no signs that Belarusian troops could launch a ground invasion of Ukraine.
At the same time, the ISW reported that Russia could use Belarusian territory to launch drone strikes on the M-06 Kyiv–Chop highway.
