Belarus has actively backed Russia since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, by providing its territory for Russian military deployment and missile launches.
Prior to the start of the attack on Ukraine, Belarus permitted the Russian Armed Forces to conduct weeks-long military training on its territory. Yet, the Russian forces did not leave the country after completing the drills, but entered the Ukrainian northern regions instead. In addition, Russian combat helicopters and rocket launchers were stationed in Belarusian military locations and employed in offensive operations against Ukraine.
Belarus’ President, Alexander Lukashenko, who this year marked three decades in power, has consistently emphasized his support for Moscow’s activities and willingness to give help. He acknowledged the ‘independence’ of the so-called DPR and LPR and has always spoken out against Ukraine at various international forums.
Belarus has faced international sanctions against its politicians and enterprises, as well as being banned from the Olympics because of its involvement in the conflict. Thus becoming even more isolated in the international arena, and dealing with enormous economic challenges.
Recently, as Ukrainian forces advanced in the Kursk region, conducting a surprise operation inside Russian territory, Belarus prepared to send tanks to its border with Ukraine. The deployment came a day after Aleksander Lukashenko ordered increased combat readiness after purported airspace violations.
On Sunday, Belarus’ defence ministry broadcasted pictures of tanks being deployed along the country’s border in the southern Gomel area “to respond to any possible provocations.”
Belarusian support to the aggressor will surely be remembered as one of the key components of the Russian-Ukrainian war, which jeopardized European security and had negative consequences for the Belarusian people and country.
