Belarus denies building fortifications on Ukraine border

Belarusian Defence Minister Viktor Khrenin has rejected reports that Belarus is constructing fortifications along its border with Ukraine, describing the claims as part of a broader effort to inflame regional tensions.

Speaking to state news agency BelTA, Khrenin said the allegations were “part of an information campaign” aimed at creating friction between Belarus and Ukraine and “do not correspond to reality.”

He noted that, under instructions from President Alexander Lukashenko, Belarus has established five fortified areas along its western and northern borders. However, he said no such construction is planned along the southern frontier with Ukraine.

Khrenin added that only a “minimally necessary” contingent of special operations forces is deployed in the border area, working alongside border guards to maintain security. He said the military remains prepared for “any development of the situation,” but reiterated that no additional fortified zones are being created in the southern direction.

The minister also said that ongoing reconstruction of bridges, road repairs and broader infrastructure development in the Polesia region are part of a state program and are not related to military preparations.

By Tamilla Hasanova