Belarus and Russia Launch Joint Military Exercise Amid Tensions with Poland
Belarus and Russia commenced their joint strategic military exercise Zapad-2025 on September 12, as part of the final phase of their combined training program, amid escalating tensions with Warsaw, reports 24brussels.
The Russian Ministry of Defense announced that “the practical actions of the troops will take place at military training grounds in Belarus and Russia, as well as in the waters of the Baltic and Barents Seas.” The exercise will run until September 16.
While participation numbers are lower than in 2021, when 200,000 troops took part, this year’s exercises will still involve not only Russian and Belarusian forces but also personnel from countries such as India and Iran.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov addressed Western apprehensions regarding the Zapad-2025 exercises, asserting that the event is not aimed at any third country. In response, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk threatened to implement “special measures” against Belarus due to the drills, accusing Moscow and Minsk of conducting maneuvers that “simulate an attack, not a defense.” He highlighted preparations in tandem with NATO allies in response to the exercises.
In light of the situation, Poland has closed its border with Belarus. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova emphasized that the Zapad-2025 exercises are a regular occurrence and are conducted with full public transparency, stating that invitations have been extended to representatives of all OSCE member states, including Poland, to observe the exercises.