On October 23, a joint meeting of the general staffs of the Ministries of Defense of Belarus and Russia took place in Belarus, starting the preparation for large-scale military exercises named “Zapad-2025.” These exercises will be a key event in the joint military training of both countries and demonstrate close cooperation in the defense sector.
Main goals of the exercises
According to Belarusian Minister of Defense Viktor Khrenin, these exercises will be the main stage of joint training of the military command structures and armies of Belarus and Russia in 2025. They will create conditions for further improvement of the military security system of the Union State. The Union State, established in 1999 between Belarus and Russia, involves close economic, political, and military integration of both countries. Joint military exercises “Zapad” are conducted regularly, and previous exercises in 2021 garnered significant attention from the international community.
Support in armaments
In addition to preparations for the exercises, Khrenin also noted that Belarus and Russia continue to cooperate in the supply of armaments and military equipment. This support is important for both countries, especially in the face of increasing international pressure and sanctions. Joint actions in the defense sector demonstrate their desire to create a powerful military force in the territory of the Union State.
Currently, Russia plays a key role in modernizing the Belarusian army by supplying modern equipment and training programs for Belarusian military personnel. According to Khrenin, over 360 Belarusian military personnel are undergoing training in Russia, indicating an active process of personnel preparation.
Regional implications and international reaction
Joint military exercises between Belarus and Russia are causing concern in neighboring countries, particularly among NATO members. The “West-2025” exercises may be perceived as a potential threat to stability in Eastern Europe. For example, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia have repeatedly expressed their concern over such actions by their neighbors. In previous years, NATO has intensified its military presence on the eastern borders of the Alliance to deter potential aggression from Russia and Belarus.
Furthermore, in light of the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war, joint exercises between Belarus and Russia may be seen as preparation for further military actions or a show of force against Western countries. Western experts constantly analyze such maneuvers to assess whether they may have real combat objectives.
Conclusion
The “West-2025” exercises will be a significant event for Russian-Belarusian cooperation in the defense sphere. The preparation for these exercises and the strengthening of ties in the field of armaments indicate the seriousness of both countries’ intentions to continue their military integration. However, the international community should closely monitor these actions as they could impact security in the region and beyond.
