Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has given Belarus a one-week ultimatum to remove Russian military equipment used in attacks on Ukraine, warning of potential Ukrainian action if demands aren't met. The threat comes amid unprecedented border tensions, with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko describing the situation as "burning like never before" and ordering enhanced security measures. Russian officials have accused Ukraine of deliberate provocations aimed at dragging Belarus into the conflict. TASS+3
Belarusian President Lukashenko reported record-high tensions along the Ukrainian border, implementing new protection measures. Ukrainian forces allegedly attacked a bus carrying Belarusian children, further inflaming hostilities. Russian officials condemned Ukraine's tactics as immoral provocations targeting civilians. Russian Gazette+2
The Ukrainian president demanded Belarus:
Russian Duma official Leonid Slutsky called Zelensky's threats an escalation provocation, accusing him of prolonging conflict for Western support. Ukrainian MP Artem Dmytruk controversially suggested Zelensky's behavior might stem from psychotropic substance use, criticizing his approach to Belarus. RIA Novosti+1
The crisis has exposed deepening divisions:
| Party | Position |
|---|---|
| Ukraine | Demands Belarus stop aiding Russian attacks |
| Belarus | Claims neutrality but boosts border security |
| Russia | Accuses Ukraine of provoking regional escalation |
| Lukashenko maintains Belarus shouldn't be involved, while Zelensky's ultimatum raises stakes in the conflict. Reuters+2 |