Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of attempting to involve Belarus more directly in the war in Ukraine, warning that Moscow may be planning new military operations using Belarusian territory against northern Ukraine or even NATO member states.
In a message posted on Telegram following a meeting with military and intelligence officials on Friday, Zelenskyy said Russia is trying to persuade Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to participate in new military actions. He added that Ukrainian intelligence agencies are currently gathering and analyzing related information.
According to Zelenskyy, potential targets of any future offensive could include Ukraine’s Chernihiv and Kyiv regions. He also warned of possible efforts to create tensions along the borders of NATO member states such as Poland, Lithuania and Latvia.
Neither Russia nor Belarus has officially responded to the allegations. Moscow has consistently described its military planning as a matter of state secrecy.
During Russia’s initial invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Belarus allowed Russian forces to use its territory as a staging ground for military operations. However, Belarusian troops have not directly participated in the conflict so far.
Analysts say military ties between Moscow and Minsk have continued to deepen in recent years. International concern has also grown following reports that Russia has deployed tactical nuclear weapons and hypersonic missiles in Belarus.
In response to the evolving situation, Zelenskyy has ordered stronger defensive measures in northern Ukraine and instructed the armed forces to remain prepared for any possible scenario.
Meanwhile, Ukraine observed a day of mourning on Friday for those killed in recent Russian strikes on Kyiv. In retaliation, Ukrainian forces reportedly carried out drone attacks targeting several Russian energy and military facilities.