Men in western regions of Belarus are receiving unexpected call-ups for military exercises, according to reports from the Belarusian news portal Suspilne. The call-ups began on February 17th, coinciding with a broader announcement from Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko regarding nationwide reserve exercises.
The Belarusian Ministry of Defense, in a statement released via Telegram on February 19th, attributed the exercises to “actions and aggressive rhetoric from Western countries openly declaring their preparation for war,” as stated by Major General Valery Revenko, head of the Department of International Military Cooperation. Revenko asserted that the exercises are intended to prepare Belarusian armed forces to “repel aggression” without engaging in any aggressive or offensive actions themselves.
Revenko stated that Belarus is not increasing the size of its armed forces, but is instead focusing on acquiring “strategic deterrents” through technologically advanced weaponry. This comes after Lukashenko announced an unscheduled inspection of the country’s armed forces in January, an inspection that remains ongoing.
Suspilne reported that those called up will receive financial compensation. While small children are not grounds for deferment, individuals caring for disabled relatives, those employed in agriculture, currently in training, or with three or more children under the age of 18 may be eligible for postponement, according to information provided by military recruitment commissions.
The exercises are taking place against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions. According to a report from Euronews, Belarusian officials have expressed concern over what they describe as Poland’s “accelerated militarization.” Revenko, as reported by the Belarusian state news agency BelTA, has criticized the policies of European Union countries, claiming they are geared towards escalating tensions and preparing for conflict. Belarus, Revenko stated, remains open to constructive cooperation with the EU.
Sources within the Belarusian opposition, speaking to Suspilne, suggested Lukashenko’s actions are motivated by concerns over potential internal unrest, drawing parallels to events in Venezuela. The source, quoted by Suspilne, stated that Lukashenko aims to ensure the loyalty of his army and maintain control.
The area of western Belarus has a complex history, having been part of Poland as the Second Polish Republic before being incorporated into the Belarusian SSR following World War II, as outlined in a Wikipedia entry on the region. This historical context adds a layer of sensitivity to current military activity in the area.
