War in Ukraine: Zelensky urges Belarus to distance itself from the conflict

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on Belarus to cease its support for Russia's war effort, citing specific instances of Belarusian involvement. Zelensky stated that Ukraine has observed the installation of Russian drone-launching equipment along the border with Belarus, which is being used to conduct strikes against Ukraine.

“

We have noted the installation, along our border with Belarus, of special equipment serving Russia, allowing the latter to launch drone strikes against us.

Furthermore, Zelensky indicated that Belarusian companies are actively supplying Russia with military components. He urged Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to dismantle the Russian military equipment deployed on Belarusian territory and to publicly demonstrate his opposition to the war. Ukraine has previously expressed concerns about Belarus potentially entering the conflict more deeply and has taken defensive measures, including reinforcing its border defenses.

In a separate development, Lukashenko offered an apology to Zelensky for past derogatory remarks. In a recent interview, Lukashenko referred to Zelensky as a "drug addict" and suggested he had "smoked too much." He explained these comments as a response to Zelensky's perceived threats against Belarus. Lukashenko stated that if Zelensky was offended, he apologized, but also cautioned Zelensky to be more prudent and avoid provoking Belarus.

“

If he was offended, I apologize for those words. He probably didn't need that, given that he is at war.

Lukashenko also sought to reassure Ukraine, stating that no military action should be expected from Belarus against Ukraine. This conciliatory tone contrasts with previous statements and may indicate an effort to de-escalate tensions amid Ukraine's pressure on Minsk.

“

Maybe I shouldn't have spoken so abruptly. But on the other hand, he must understand that, as they often say: you reap what you sow.