Former Ukrainian Soldier Warns of Potential Russian Baltic Plans Following “zapad” Exercises
KYIV, Ukraine – A Ukrainian army volunteer soldier who fought in the Donbas region is sounding the alarm about potential Russian aggression toward the Baltic states, characterizing the large-scale “Zapad“ military exercises as more than just routine drills. The former soldier, speaking on background, asserts the exercises represent a critical rehearsal for a possible future invasion scenario.
The annual “Zapad” (“West”) exercises, co-hosted by Russia and Belarus, concluded September 20, 2023, involving approximately 25,000 troops. While Moscow officially frames “Zapad” as a defensive exercise aimed at countering threats to regional security, the Ukrainian veteran believes the drills are a sophisticated preparation for a potential multi-pronged offensive. He warns that the exercises meticulously practise logistical chains, command structures, and coordinated maneuvers necessary for a rapid advance into the Baltic nations of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia – all NATO members.
“Zapad is just a general rehearsal,” the former soldier stated. “They are working out the logistics of a full-scale invasion, practicing how to cut off supply lines, and how to quickly occupy territory.” He emphasized the exercises’ focus on simulating hybrid warfare tactics, including information operations designed to destabilize target countries and sow discord among the population.
The veteran’s concerns stem from firsthand experience observing Russian military tactics in eastern Ukraine beginning in 2014. He points to similarities between the scenarios practiced during “Zapad” and the initial phases of the conflict in Donbas,including the use of proxy forces,cyberattacks,and disinformation campaigns to create a pretext for military intervention. He believes Russia is actively probing the resolve of NATO and assessing the alliance’s response time.
The Baltic states have long been considered vulnerable to Russian aggression due to their geographic proximity, ancient ties, and sizable Russian-speaking minorities.All three nations share borders with Russia or Belarus, and have repeatedly expressed concerns about Moscow’s increasingly assertive foreign policy.NATO has bolstered its presence in the region in recent years, deploying additional troops and equipment to deter potential attacks, but the former soldier argues that thes measures may not be sufficient. He suggests a more robust and proactive defense strategy is needed to effectively counter the threat posed by Russia.
