Is Mobilization Expected in Minsk?

Belarus does not need to declare mobilization to ensure its security, stated the country's Security Council Secretary Alexander Wolfovich. He made this statement in response to rumors of a potential troop call-up in the republic following the announcement of partial mobilization by Russian leadership.

“Mobilization is not about us, the people of Belarus and the country, however, we are mobilized. And of course, God forbid, we are ready to respond with the forces and means designated for this - the law enforcement block, the peacetime personnel who are currently performing their tasks of protecting their country and constitutional order in their territory,” the general said.

Previously, he had met in Moscow with Russian Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev. Wolfovich clarified that new types of military formations are being created in Belarus. “The popular militia in Belarus is a new type of formation intended to protect its country and territory. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has repeatedly stated that Belarus does not threaten anyone, it protects its national interests, its land, and its territories,” Wolfovich explained.

He also mentioned that during the meeting with Patrushev, experts from the Security Councils of the two countries discussed the situation regarding “hybrid threats from the West” and developed several mechanisms to confront these challenges and threats. Lukashenko had earlier stated in his meeting with Wolfovich that Belarus will not allow the Russian army to be “attacked from behind” through its territory.