Ukraine Strengthens Border Security Amid Potential Threat from Belarus

(CNA, Kyiv, 21st, Comprehensive Foreign Report) Weeks after warning that Russia's main regional ally, Belarus, could launch a new attack on Ukraine, Kyiv authorities are now strengthening security measures in the Ukrainian border region with Belarus. AFP reports that Ukraine has warned Russia might launch a new offensive from Belarus in the north, which would pose a threat to the capital, Kyiv. Russia used Belarus as a staging ground for its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) said in a statement that it had deployed personnel alongside the Ukrainian military to 'implement a series of comprehensive security enhancement measures in our country's northern regions,' including strengthening checks and controls on individuals and their property. It emphasized that this move 'will effectively deter any aggressive actions or combat operations by the enemy and its allies.' Earlier this week, Russia and Belarus began joint nuclear weapons drills involving thousands of troops, combat aircraft, and tactical missile units. As the exercises continue, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated yesterday that if Russian forces dare to expand their aggression, his country 'is preparing to respond to any possible enemy actions.' On the 18th, the Kremlin, Russia's seat of power, dismissed Ukrainian accusations that Moscow is trying to further draw Belarus into the war, stating that Kyiv is 'attempting to provoke further.'