Defence Minister: Zapad-2025 main manoeuvres to be moved deep into Belarus
It has been decided to reduce the scale of the Zapad-2025 exercise and relocate its main manoeuvres from the western border deep into the territory of Belarus – as stated by Defence Minister Viktor Khrenin at a meeting of the CSTO Council of Defence Ministers in Bishkek, sb.by reports with reference to Belarus’ Defence Ministry
Viktor Khrenin stressed that the Zapad-2025 exercise is not aimed at anyone, and the relocation of its main manoeuvres from the western borders deep into the territory of Belarus indicates readiness for dialogue and reduction of tension in the region.
"In terms of intensity and scale, the Zapad exercises have always been incomparable with the operational and combat training events conducted by NATO members in Europe. However, the very fact of their organisation causes stereotyped speculation on the part of representatives of the military and political leadership of some European states," the Defence Minister said.
Viktor Khrenin added, “Although no steps have been taken to return to the implementation of a number of key arms control agreements with respect to the Republic of Belarus, we have decided to reduce the scale of the Zapad-2025 exercise. In this way, we once again confirm – not only through words but also in action – our readiness for dialogue, compromises and reduction of tension. Frankly speaking, we are doing this without any hope for a constructive response. We are doing this primarily to demonstrate Belarus’ truly peace-loving position to all its allies and partners around the globe.”
