Zelenskyy Warns of 'Great Risks' from New Russia-Belarus Military Drills

Zelenskyy Highlights Escalating Threat from Joint Drills

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on February 23, 2026, cautioned against potential new joint military exercises between Russia and Belarus on Belarusian soil, stating they represent 'great risks' for Ukraine and Belarusians. Speaking in an interview with the Belarusian independent media outlet Zerkalo, Zelenskyy drew a direct link between past extensive drills and the subsequent full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Concerns Over Covert Operations and Missile Deployment

The Ukrainian President's warning stems from intelligence suggesting Russia may use these drills to covertly assemble offensive forces. Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi previously noted that military exercises are an 'acceptable way to relocate, redeploy troops, concentrate them in a certain direction, and create a group of troops.' Zelenskyy also highlighted the deployment of the Oreshnik ballistic missile system to Belarus, asserting that only parts of the system have been brought in, but Russia is using it to intimidate Europe and will eventually bring the full system without Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko's full control. He suggested that NATO should consider the Oreshnik system in Belarus a 'legitimate target.'

Belarusian Territory as a Launchpad for Aggression

Zelenskyy underscored that Belarusian territory has historically been utilized by Russia for military aggression, including as a launch point for the 2022 invasion and for Russian aircraft attacks. He also pointed out that Russian operators of attack drones are currently using Belarusian territory and civilian infrastructure to plot routes and maintain communication during attacks on Ukraine. The Ukrainian leader stressed that Lukashenko is making a 'big mistake' by allowing Russia such access and that the Belarusian people must understand the inherent dangers.

Historical Precedent and Ongoing Military Cooperation

Joint military exercises between Russia and Belarus are a regular occurrence, with notable drills such as the 'Zapad' series (e.g., Zapad-2021) often raising concerns among neighboring countries. The Zapad-2021 exercises, for instance, preceded Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In recent times, Belarus has intensified its military cooperation with Russia, including mass convocations of reservists and increased drills near the Ukrainian border. Satellite imagery has also indicated the development of a new military site in Belarus potentially intended for the deployment of the Oreshnik missile system. These developments contribute to the ongoing apprehension regarding Russia's intentions in the region.