28 May 2025

Khrenin: Zapad 2025 maneuvers will be moved deep into Belarus

A decision has been taken to reduce the scale of the Zapad 2025 exercise and move its main maneuvers deeper into Belarus from the western borders, Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin said at a meeting of the CSTO Defense Ministers Council in Bishkek, BelTA learned from the press service of the Belarusian Defense Ministry.

The minister stressed that the Zapad 2025 exercise is not aimed against anyone, while the transfer of its main maneuvers deep into the territory of Belarus from the western borders indicates the readiness for dialogue and reduction of tension in the region. In terms of intensity and scale, the Zapad exercise has always been incomparable to the operational and combat training activities conducted in Europe by NATO member states. However, the very fact of its conduct has traditionally been causing stereotype speculations from representatives of the military and political leadership of certain European states, the minister said.

“Despite the fact that 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 doing so, we are once again confirming not only in word but also in practice our readiness for dialogue, compromise and easing of tensions. We are doing this, frankly speaking, without hoping for a constructive response. We are doing it to demonstrate to our allies and partners around the world the truly peace-loving position of the Republic of Belarus,” said Viktor Khrenin.

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