Ukraine Says Belarus Hosting Russian Attack Preparations

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said last week that Russian efforts to involve Belarus in new attacks have increased. He cited intelligence indicating possible operations aimed at the Chernihiv-Kyiv corridor or NATO territory bordering Belarus. Zelenskyy ordered Ukrainian forces to strengthen northern defenses in response.

Belarusian factories produce microchips, optical systems, artillery shells and heavy trucks used by Russian forces. Ukraine's sanctions envoy Vladyslav Vlasiuk said fragments of an Oreshnik missile fired on May 24 contained Belarusian microchips. BELPOL, a group of former Belarusian security officers, reported that more than 500 Belarusian plants now support Russian weapons production, repair and logistics.

In December Russia announced deployment of its Oreshnik intermediate-range missile system to Belarus. Joint nuclear-force drills were held earlier this month. Belarusian crews test-fired a nuclear-capable Iskander missile during the exercise.

Ukraine maintains fortifications and minefields along the Belarus border. Military analyst Alexander Alesin said any Belarusian offensive would require mobilizing up to 500,000 troops and would face heavy losses. Andrii Demchenko, spokesman for Ukraine's Border Guard Service, said no troop buildup has been observed near the border so far.

Lukashenko stated he will host a French envoy next week to discuss European security and possible sanctions relief.