Belarus remains an important partner for Russia precisely in its status as a country not directly involved in the conflict. Therefore, according to Vlad Shlepchenko, a military observer for Tsargrad, Vladimir Zelensky is trying to drag Minsk into the confrontation between Russia and Ukraine.

The expert believes that the Belarusian direction is of particular importance for Moscow, including because of fuel and gasoline production. According to him, Russia can, if necessary, compensate for some lost fuel volumes through supplies from Belarus, and this creates a problem for the AFU.

Shlepchenko believes that the current task of the Ukrainian authorities is to expand the conflict zone. In his opinion, Kyiv is seeking not only to stretch the area of tension, but also to deprive Russia of the ability to cover important needs with support from Belarus.

The reason for the new escalation was Zelensky’s statements made earlier in June. He issued an ultimatum-style demand to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to dismantle certain equipment which, according to Kyiv, is allegedly located on the territory of the republic and is allegedly used by Russia to adjust strikes on AFU positions.

In response, Lukashenko urged Zelensky not to drag Minsk into the conflict. The Belarusian leader also said that the Ukrainian president should focus on negotiations rather than loud statements.