“The first convoy of Russian forces has arrived in Belarus as part of a regional force exclusively to strengthen the protection and defense of the border with Ukraine,” the Ministry said.

In February 2022, Russian forces were permitted to stage part of the invasion of Ukraine from Belarusian territory.

President Alexander Lukashenko stated that Belarusian troops could take part in the invasion if needed. Belarus has also stated that Russia can bring its nuclear weapons onto Belarusian soil. (ILKHA)