Joint Military Exercise Between Russia and Belarus
On September 12, 2025, Russia and Belarus initiated a significant joint military exercise, "Zapad-2025," near NATO's territory. This exercise involves various drills conducted across both countries and in the Baltic and Barents Seas.
Context and Timing
- The exercise occurs amidst heightened tensions due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
- The event follows an incident where Poland, supported by NATO allies, shot down suspected Russian drones over its airspace.
Objectives of Zapad-2025
- To enhance commanders' skills and operational cooperation among regional and coalition troop groupings.
- The first stage involves simulating defense against an attack on Russia and Belarus (the Union State alliance).
- The second stage focuses on restoring the Union State's territorial integrity and defeating the enemy with coalition forces from friendly states.
International Reactions
- Kremlin claims the drills are not targeted against other nations despite proximity to Poland's border.
- The recent drone incident over Poland has increased tensions, viewed by the West as a potential provocation by Russia.
- Russia denies responsibility, attributing the drones to a direction from Ukraine.
- U.S. President Donald Trump suggested the drone incursion might have been a mistake.
Responses from Poland and NATO
- Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk labeled the maneuvers as "very aggressive" and closed Poland's border with Belarus.
- Lithuania, sharing a border with Belarus, took protective measures against potential threats from the military exercise.
