Lukashenko: Situation around Belarus is not becoming calmer

“We have always been in a very serious situation. Today, unfortunately, the trend shows that things are not calming down. Looking at the map, we see that we are practically surrounded by military units on all sides. The only relief is the eastern border with the Russian Federation, where conditions are somewhat easier. Yet I would not say the situation is simple, especially given recent events in Ukraine, when drones can enter our territory from unpredictable directions. Frankly speaking, we have not yet learned to respond fully to these incursions, nor to destroy them completely. I am not sure whether achieving 100% effectiveness is possible, but it is a goal we must strive toward. This will also be a subject of our discussions,” the head of state said.

Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that approving decisions on state border protection at the highest level at the beginning of the year is a good military tradition that has been established for many years. “Today, [countering threats to border security] is more relevant than ever. Perhaps even more relevant than other military threats. As I have already said, our border guards are constantly in full combat readiness. They have no other state of readiness – always complete combat readiness. They are prepared to work as in wartime, because, as we used to say, on the last meters of our Motherland they are trusted with the honor and right to protect,” the president emphasized.

The head of state requested a report on the current situation at the border, what actions are planned for this year, and what measures need to be taken in this regard.