Russian Troops Conduct Tactical Exercises in Belarus

Russia has announced that its troops are conducting tactical exercises in Belarus, reports Reuters.

The announcement comes amid Western concerns that Russia is pressuring Belarus to become more involved in the war in Ukraine.

Belarus previously denied that it would participate in the conflict. However, President Alexander Lukashenko has previously ordered Belarusian troops to deploy with Russian forces near the Ukrainian border under the pretext of strengthening defenses against Kyiv and the West.

The Russian Defense Ministry said that servicemembers from the Western Military District were continuing “intensive combat training” at Belarusian training ranges.

The drills included small-arms and mortar firing, driving vehicles and passing psychological obstacle courses.