Ukraine: Belarus Gathers Troops Collectively at Border
Ukraine is pointing out increased mobilization of Belarusian troops and military equipment at their shared border. As per Ukraine's Foreign Ministry, shared via their Telegram, these activities are taking place under the guise of a military exercise.
Ukraine alleges that not only soldiers and equipment are amassing, but tanks, artillery, air defense systems, and multiple rocket launchers have been spotted in the Gomel region, which borders Ukraine to the north. Additionally, soldiers from the ex-Wagner group are reportedly present there, according to the announcement.
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry cautioned the Belarusian authorities, "Do not let Russia's pressure lead you into regrettable actions. Cease your hostile activities and withdraw your troops from the border, ensuring they stay beyond the reach of their weapons."
Moreover, Ukraine issues a stern warning to Belarus, its Russian ally. "If there's a border breach, we will implement suitable measures for self-defense," it declared. Any troop concentrations, facilities, and supply routes on or near the Ukrainian border, then, become legitimate targets for the Ukrainian army, as per the Foreign Ministry.
Recently, Belarus announced large-scale military movements towards the Ukrainian border, claiming provocation by Kyiv. The Belarusian leader, Alexander Lukashenko, is a close associate of Russian leader Vladimir Putin. To date, Belarus has refrained from directly participating in the conflict with its troops. However, during the beginning stages of the Russian invasion in February 2022, locations in Belarus served as a launch pad for Russian troops preparing to invade Ukraine.
The following warning was issued by Ukraine's Foreign Ministry via Telegram: "Do not let Russia's pressure lead you into regrettable actions. Cease your hostile activities and withdraw your troops from the border, ensuring they stay beyond the reach of their weapons."
Furthermore, Ukraine stated that any troop concentrations near its border, as a result of the 'following' large-scale military movements announced by Belarus, would become legitimate targets for the Ukrainian army.
