Belarus strengthens border with Ukraine amid escalating tensions
Andrej Łukianowicz, the commander of the Belarusian Air and Air Defence Forces, revealed on Monday that additional air defence forces have been sent to the border with Ukraine. This action is related to the Ukrainian army's operation in the Kursk region.
A few days ago, Alexander Lukashenko admitted that nearly one-third of the Belarusian army had been sent to the Ukrainian border.
Seeing their aggressive policy, we have introduced there and placed in certain points - in case of war, they would be defence - our military along the entire border - said the Belarusian dictator in an interview with Russian state television, quoted by Reuters.
On Monday, 19 August, Andrej Łukianowicz, the commander of the Belarusian Air and Air Defence Forces, confirmed on state television that additional air defence forces, aircraft, and other military equipment had been sent to the border with Ukraine.
According to PAP, after the start of the unexpected offensive of Ukrainian troops deep into the Kursk region in Russia, Lukashenko - a loyal ally of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin - accused Kyiv of an aggressive policy and of deploying 120,000 soldiers near the Belarusian border.
Both states have been increasing their activity along the border between Belarus and Ukraine for some time. This area is strategically important, and any change in its security is significant for both Kyiv and Minsk.
What does Belarus's behaviour mean?
Strengthening the border by Belarus can have broad political and military consequences. Experts suggest that this might be another step in Lukashenko's strategy to consolidate his internal power and show support for Russia in its conflict with Ukraine.
Conversely, such an escalation can lead to increased tensions not only in the region but also on the international stage.
