In a large field 45 miles (72km) from Belarus' capital Minsk, a battle is raging. There are giant explosions as Sukhoi-34 bombers drop guided bombs. Huge plumes of smoke darken the sky. The whole area echoes to the sound of exploding mortar and artillery shells. Helicopter gunships join the attack, while surveillance drones sweep overhead to view the damage.
It's only an exercise, though. Together with other international media, we've been brought to the Borisovsky training ground where Belarusian and Russian forces are taking part in joint manoeuvres. It's part of the Zapad-2025 ('West 2025') military drills, occurring every four years.
Moscow and Minsk maintain that the drills are of a purely defensive nature and are designed to strengthen the security of both nations. However, given the historical context, skepticism remains high among neighboring countries. Observers have noted that such drills coincide with heightened tensions in Eastern Europe, exacerbated by Russia's ongoing conflicts.
Despite claims of transparency, many European leaders, particularly from Poland, view these exercises as provocative. The geopolitical landscape remains tense as both Russia and Belarus attempt to reestablish ties in the West while their actions raise alarm throughout Europe regarding their military intentions.
It's only an exercise, though. Together with other international media, we've been brought to the Borisovsky training ground where Belarusian and Russian forces are taking part in joint manoeuvres. It's part of the Zapad-2025 ('West 2025') military drills, occurring every four years.
Moscow and Minsk maintain that the drills are of a purely defensive nature and are designed to strengthen the security of both nations. However, given the historical context, skepticism remains high among neighboring countries. Observers have noted that such drills coincide with heightened tensions in Eastern Europe, exacerbated by Russia's ongoing conflicts.
Despite claims of transparency, many European leaders, particularly from Poland, view these exercises as provocative. The geopolitical landscape remains tense as both Russia and Belarus attempt to reestablish ties in the West while their actions raise alarm throughout Europe regarding their military intentions.
