President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared Friday that Ukraine has intelligence confirming Russia is pressuring Belarus to join the war and exploring military operations from Belarusian territory against Ukraine or NATO member states.
Plans for operations from Belarus
Zelenskyy stated that Kyiv has obtained details regarding Moscow’s negotiations with Minsk. Russia is reportedly considering military operations in both southern and northern directions from Belarus, targeting either Ukrainian regions like Chernihiv and Kyiv, or an unspecified NATO country.
The Ukrainian president warned that Kyiv will defend itself if Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko chooses to support these Russian intentions. Consequently, Zelenskyy has ordered military and intelligence services to bolster defenses along the Belarusian border and draft response plans.
Ukraine prepares countermeasures and sanctions
These disclosures follow a staff meeting with Ukrainian military commanders and intelligence chiefs. Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine is finalizing new, far-reaching sanctions against Russia, specifically targeting its oil industry, military production, and individuals involved in war crimes.
Intelligence reports also indicate the Kremlin is preparing new strikes on Ukrainian decision-making centers. Zelenskyy emphasized that, unlike Russia’s autocratic leadership, Ukraine’s defense is anchored in the collective resolve of a nation fighting for its sovereignty and independence.