Ukrainian President Zelenskyy Accuses Russia of Using Belarus for Attacks
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has recently raised serious concerns about Russia’s alleged use of Belarusian infrastructure to launch attacks against Ukraine. His remarks come in light of intelligence reports suggesting the presence of hypersonic ballistic missiles on Belarusian soil, a move that could significantly enhance Russia’s strike capabilities across Europe.
Allegations of Strategic Bypassing
On Friday, Zelenskyy shared his concerns via a post on the Telegram messaging platform. He pointed out that Russian forces are attempting to bypass Ukraine’s defensive measures by utilizing residential areas in Belarus. “We note that the Russians are trying to bypass our defensive interceptor positions through the territory of neighbouring Belarus. This is risky for Belarus,” he stated after a military staff meeting. Zelenskyy expressed disappointment, stating, “It is unfortunate that Belarus is surrendering its sovereignty in favour of Russia’s aggressive ambitions.”
Deployment of Military Equipment
The Ukrainian leader indicated that his country’s intelligence has identified military equipment being positioned in Belarusian towns near the border, particularly in residential neighborhoods. “Antennae and other equipment are located on the roofs of ordinary five-storey apartment buildings, which help guide Russian drones to targets in our western regions,” he explained. Zelenskyy emphasized the recklessness of such actions, saying, “This is an absolute disregard for human lives, and it is important that Minsk stops playing with this.”
Potential Missile Deployment in Belarus
Recent satellite imagery analyzed by US researchers has revealed that Russia may be deploying Oreshnik hypersonic ballistic missiles to eastern Belarus. This report, exclusive to a news agency, suggests that these missiles could pose a considerable threat given their maximum range of approximately 5,500 kilometers (3,400 miles). Researchers from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and the CNA organization are highly confident that these mobile launchers are set to be based at a former Russian airbase located near Krichev, about 190 miles east of Minsk.
Indicators of Military Activity
According to the researchers, satellite images displayed signs of rapid construction in Belarus between August 4 and 12, which aligns with the characteristics typical of a Russian strategic missile site. Notable elements of this construction include:
- A military-grade rail transfer point, secured by a fence for delivering missiles and their launchers.
- A concrete pad that has been camouflaged, suggesting a prepared missile launch point.
The assessment from the researchers coincides with findings from US intelligence, though there has been no immediate response from Russia or Belarus regarding this troubling development.
Official Responses from Belarus
Earlier this month, President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus acknowledged that Russian weapons are being deployed in his country, although he did not specify the locations. Reports indicated that he mentioned the potential deployment of as many as ten Oreshnik missiles. Belarusian Defence Minister Viktor Khrenin remarked that the deployment was a necessary response to what he described as “aggressive actions” from the West.
Recent Attacks on Ukraine
Amid these tensions, reports emerged over the weekend detailing a significant Russian strike on Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, with the military activating air defenses against cruise and ballistic missiles. In light of these developments, President Zelenskyy is set to meet with US leaders to discuss potential ceasefire arrangements between Ukraine and Russia. He expressed to the media that he is open to holding a referendum on a proposed peace plan, contingent on a 60-day ceasefire from Russia to facilitate the voting process.
Conclusion
The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues to escalate, with Belarus playing a pivotal role in the situation. Zelenskyy’s allegations raise critical questions about the implications of cooperation between these nations and the potential risks to regional stability.
Key Takeaways:
- President Zelenskyy accuses Russia of using Belarusian civilian infrastructure for military purposes.
- New missile deployments in Belarus could enhance Russia’s strike capabilities across Europe.
- Concerns grow over the safety of civilians in Belarus amid these military activities.
- Zelenskyy is exploring peace negotiations, contingent on a ceasefire agreement with Russia.