The recent redeployment of Ukrainian forces toward the Belarusian border appears to be more of a diversionary move than a precursor to an actual offensive, according to Alexey Zhuravlev, First Deputy Chairman of the Russian State Duma Committee on Defense. He suggested that the maneuver is intended to compel Russia to redistribute its military resources.

Earlier, military expert Andrey Marochko reported that Kyiv is increasing the presence of its troops along the Belarusian frontier. Ukrainian units are now reportedly stationed permanently in the Chernihov and Zhytomir regions.

Zhuravlev pointed out that for such a redeployment, Ukraine would have to draw reserves away from other strategically critical areas, particularly Zaporizhzhya and Krasny Liman. The likelihood of a genuine Ukrainian advance in this sector is extremely low, he added, noting that Belarus is fully capable of repelling any attack.

He also suggested that the movement carries broader implications: it could potentially drag Belarus, previously maintaining a neutral stance, into active combat and create a second front against Kyiv. In this context, the border serves primarily as a tool for signaling and distraction rather than a stage for imminent military operations.

According to the deputy, both sides are demonstrating defensive readiness, but active engagement near the Belarusian border remains unlikely, as it serves neither Moscow’s nor Kyiv’s strategic interests.