Massive joint military exercises Zapad-2025 began today with up to 30,000 troops participating, sparking concerns among neighboring nations.
Russia-Belarus Military Maneuvers:
The drills, which began on September 12th and will run through the 16th, involve land, air, missile, and drone forces. Officially, 13,000 troops from both Russia and Belarus are expected to participate, though intelligence sources suggest the actual number could reach 30,000. The exercises will simulate defending against a hypothetical attack before transitioning to a counter-offensive and restoring the territorial integrity of allied nations.
Expanded Scope of Drills:
Revolutionary weapons like the Avangard hypersonic missile system and simulated nuclear weapons will be tested during the drills. Russia has invited contingents from countries within the Collective Security Treaty Organization, as well as friendly nations, although specific participants have not been officially disclosed yet.
International Concerns:
Over 20 countries, including India, Iran, and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, are reportedly taking part in the exercises. Poland and Lithuania have reinforced their borders in response, with Poland even closing all border crossings with Belarus as a precautionary measure.
