Belarus Reinforces Troops at Ukraine Border After Drone Incidents

Belarus has bolstered its military presence along the border with Ukraine following reports of Ukrainian drones crossing its airspace. Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin confirmed that the drones were intercepted by Belarusian air defenses, prompting President Alexander Lukashenko to label the incident as a "provocation." He asserted that the actions of Ukraine indicate a lack of willingness for peace and an escalation of tensions in the region. In response to the perceived threat, Lukashenko has ordered an increase in military forces in the Gomel and Mozyr areas, which are adjacent to Ukraine. Khrenin detailed that special operations units, ground troops, and missile systems, including the 'Polonez' and 'Iskander' complexes, have been deployed to these areas. Additionally, air defense and aviation capabilities have been enhanced to prepare for any further provocations. The Belarusian Foreign Ministry has taken diplomatic action by summoning the Charge d’Affaires of Ukraine to express strong discontent over the drone incident. The ministry warned that any recurrence could lead to retaliatory measures, including a reassessment of Ukraine's diplomatic presence in Belarus. It accused Ukraine of engaging in "criminal actions" that threaten to escalate the conflict in the region. Belarus has called on European nations to avoid further escalation, emphasizing that an expanded conflict would have dire consequences for the entire region, including EU countries. Meanwhile, Ukraine has yet to respond publicly to the allegations made by Belarus.