Belarus and Russia Showcase Military Might in Zapad-2025 Drills as a Signal to Europe
Belarus and Russia's joint Zapad-2025 exercises near Minsk serve as a show of force amid rising tensions in Eastern Europe, prompting concerns in Warsaw and Brussels.
Massive Drills Near Minsk Highlight Firepower
At the Borisovsky training ground, 72km from Minsk, Sukhoi-34 bombers unleash guided bombs amid thunderous explosions. Helicopter gunships join artillery and mortar fire while surveillance drones circle overhead, surveying simulated battle damage.
A Rehearsal with a Message
These are the Zapad-2025 military exercises, held every four years by Belarus and Russia. Although officials insist the drills are purely defensive, memories linger of the 2022 Union Resolve manoeuvres, after which Russian forces invaded Ukraine from Belarusian soil.
This year’s exercises involved fewer troops than in 2022, but Belarus allowed observers from 23 countries, including the US, Turkey and Hungary. "We consider these exercises unprecedented in their transparency," said Major General Valery Revenko, assistant to the Belarusian defence minister. "We are not threatening anyone. We stand for constructive, pragmatic dialogue."
Heightened Regional Tensions
Poland’s prime minister, Donald Tusk, branded Zapad-2025 "very aggressive" and preemptively closed the border with Belarus. Last week, Poland accused Russia of a deliberate drone incursion, prompting NATO jets to respond. Romania also reported a drone breach, fueling concerns that Moscow is testing European unity and resolve.
Despite attempts by Moscow and Minsk to court Washington, ties with Europe remain strained. The invitation to international media can be seen as a transparency gesture—but the roar of explosions and gunfire may carry another message: "Take note of the firepower at Europe's doorstep; confrontation with Moscow is not in your best interest."
Europe should recognize the scale of Belarus and Russia’s military capabilities on its borders and consider the risks of confrontation.
This topic was reported by BBC News.
Explore useful articles in World News as of 15-09-2025. The article titled " Belarus and Russia Showcase Military Might in Zapad-2025 Drills as a Signal to Europe " offers in-depth analysis and practical advice in the World News field. Each article is carefully crafted by experts to provide maximum value to readers.
The " Belarus and Russia Showcase Military Might in Zapad-2025 Drills as a Signal to Europe " article expands your knowledge in World News, keeps you informed about the latest developments, and helps you make well-informed decisions. Each article is based on unique content, ensuring originality and quality.