Expert comments on updated National Security Concept: President is realistic about the situation
Preparation of the updated National Security Concept was discussed on September 20th with participation of Belarus’ President and the State Secretary of the Security Council, Aleksandr Volfovich. Political expert Aleksandr Shpakovsky speculated upon the tasks the Belarusian army faces now and the situation observed on the country’s southern borders.
In his talk with Alfa Radio, Mr. Shpakovsky noted that the situation on the southern and north-western borders is complex: the neighbouring states – which are pursuing an unfriendly policy towards Belarus – are concentrating their troops near the state border.
“From a military point of view, this does not bode well. Elements are being concentrated in the neighbouring countries around the political emigrant centres founded by our extremists, and they do not hide their goal: an armed attack on Belarus and the outbreak of a civil war in our country. This is done to overthrow the legitimate government and carry out an unconstitutional coup,” the expert said, adding that these centres, groups and illegal armed formations are being created, trained and equipped with the support of foreign special services.
“The President understands this very well. The situation is extremely difficult now, and a degree of risks to Belarus’ national security has increased significantly. At the same time, the internal political situation is under control. There are no radical protest sentiments in the country, and people understand what is happening beyond," Mr. Shpakovsky noted.
The expert stressed that Belarus is facing an unprecedented sanctions pressure, information hybrid war and imposition of an arms race. “Confrontation in the military sphere has not yet turned into an open armed conflict, but we are forced to take measures to increase the level of combat training of our troops, mobilise reserves, conduct territorial defence exercises, provide the army with additional military hardware and weapons. In this situation, Belarus’ citizens have slightly experienced the effect of the changes faced by the world and our country in particular," he noted.
Speaking of the updated National Security Concept, Mr. Shpakovsky shared an opinion that the Head of State is realistic about the current situation in the world. “We must demonstrate to everyone that we will defend our country in case of external aggression. We will defend our state, protect our way of life, peace and stability which we consider the main values of Belarus, in accordance with the Military Doctrine currently in force,” he said.
The radio programme host, Vadim Shepet, stressed that – as stated by the President – the National Security Concept should be open and clear. “What allies does Belarus have [in the field of national security]? These are the Belarusian people only,” the political expert responded. “This is the only entity interested in preserving sovereign, independent Belarus. We must ensure our own safety. What is the point of hiding anything from the people? If the situation is difficult, then let us talk about it.”
