Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko announced on July 13, 2024, that tensions on the Belarus-Ukraine border have significantly de-escalated. According to Lukashenko, Ukrainian forces have withdrawn their troops and additional military equipment from the border zone, prompting Belarus to reciprocate.”After our specific work, the Ukrainians withdrew their armed forces and additional troops that they had previously deployed to our border, and they have generally withdrawn from the zone of the Belarus-Ukraine border,” Lukashenko stated.In response to this development, Lukashenko ordered Belarusian troops to return to their permanent deployment locations. The situation had been escalating for several weeks, with both sides increasing their military presence in the area.Lukashenko expressed hope for continued stability, stating, “There are no complications with the Ukrainians now, and I hope there won’t be any”. He emphasized the need for dialogue between Belarus, Ukraine, and Russia to prevent further escalation.However, some sources suggest that the situation remains complex. The Center for National Resistance reported that Belarus might be preparing new provocations on the border. Additionally, Kirill Budanov, Head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense, stated that the risk of a Russian military attack from the north remains.Lukashenko also warned of potential provocations on Belarus’s northwestern borders with Lithuania, urging vigilance among law enforcement agencies. He plans to discuss further actions with Russian President Vladimir Putin.The Belarusian Defense Ministry had previously reported an increase in tension on the border with Ukraine, citing the deployment of Ukrainian troops, weapons, and military equipment. In response, Ukraine’s State Border Guard Service stated they were strengthening the border with Belarus to prevent any potential threats.
Key points
- Belarusian President Lukashenko announces de-escalation of tensions on the Belarus-Ukraine border.
- Both Ukrainian and Belarusian troops have been ordered to withdraw from the border area.
- Lukashenko calls for dialogue between Belarus, Ukraine, and Russia to prevent further escalation.
- Some sources suggest potential for new provocations and continued risk of military action.
Contradictions👾While Lukashenko claims tensions have eased, some sources like the Center for National Resistance and Ukraine’s Intelligence Directorate suggest potential for new provocations and continued risk of military action.
👾Lukashenko expresses hope for stability with Ukraine, but also warns of provocations on Belarus’s northwestern borders with Lithuania.
