Kremlin says Russian-Belarusian Zapad-2025 drills not targeting any country

The Zapad-2025 strategic military exercises between Russia and Belarus are proceeding as scheduled, Russian Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov said, emphasising that the drills are not aimed at any third country.

Speaking at a briefing, Peskov explained that the exercises are part of ongoing military cooperation between the two allies and are intended to strengthen operational coordination. He noted that Russia’s approach in this regard is well known internationally and reiterated that the drills are not directed against any other states, Caliber.Az reports via TASS.

The exercises, scheduled for September 12 to 16 in Belarus, will focus on ensuring the military security of the two countries, Russian media says. 

Troops are expected to practise repelling air strikes, countering enemy sabotage operations, and planning the use of nuclear weapons. The drills will also feature Russia’s latest medium-range ballistic missile system, the Oreshnik.

By Sabina Mammadli