Belarus’ FM on launch of drones from Ukraine: if conflict expands, the whole of the region, including EU states, will get under fire

The violation of the Belarusian border by Ukrainian attack drones was a very serious incident, and such criminal actions radically escalate the situation and represent a dangerous attempt to expand the zone of the current conflict in the region – as stated by the Foreign Ministry in connection with the launch of Ukrainian military drones on the territory of Belarus, sb.by reports

"On August 9th, 2024, a group of attack unmanned aerial vehicles launched from the territory of Ukraine violated the border of the Republic of Belarus and was later shot down by the Air Defence Forces of our country. This is a very serious incident that will not remain without a proper international legal and substantive assessment," the source said in a statement. “Such criminal actions radically escalate the situation and represent a dangerous attempt to expand the zone of the current conflict in our region. Against this background, there are attempts to get Belarus – which has consistently advocated a settlement of the crisis and an end to the bloodshed – involved.”

The Foreign Ministry stressed that such steps are being taken by the Ukrainian leadership with the explicit connivance or even instigation of well-known external players, "We strongly urge these parties to come to their senses and stop. We appeal to the peoples of neighbouring Europe: in the event of an expansion of the conflict, the fire will cover the entire region, including the EU countries. There will be no winners! Cool down your militant politicians!"

Due to the danger of the situation and global risks, the Belarusian Foreign Ministry will immediately bring detailed information about the incident to the relevant UN and OSCE structures, as well as to members of international organisations and associations to which the Republic of Belarus is a participant. "We will also initiate appropriate consultations with our allies and partners, as well as through international structures," the source said.

"Of course, Belarus will fully use its right to self-defence and respond appropriately to any provocations or hostile actions," the Foreign Ministry stressed.