US: Russian military redeployed to Belarus could be involved in attack on Ukraine
Washington is concerned that Russian servicemen, which are now being transferred to Belarus, can be used to attack Ukraine. There is a threat of the permanent presence of Russian nuclear forces in Belarus, reports Deutsche Welle.
The transfer of the Russian military to Belarus for the joint exercise “Union Resolve 2022” amid tensions in the region makes one fear that these forces “potentially” could be used to attack neighboring Ukraine. A U.S. State Department spokesman told reporters at a briefing Tuesday, January 18, on condition of anonymity.
According to the official, the timing is essential. Also significant is the concern that Russia is seeking to station troops in Belarus under the guise of joint military exercises – for a potential attack on Ukraine.
Washington estimates that the number of Russian military personnel now being deployed to Belarus “goes beyond what we expect as part of conventional exercises” and could mean a permanent Russian military stay there involving both conventional and nuclear forces.
The permanent presence of Russian military forces in Belarus may also be facilitated by amendments to the Belarusian constitution, which are expected to be adopted after the referendum in February, the U.S. fears.
According to the U.S., such a scenario would be “a challenge to European security that may require a response.”
Russian Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin said on January 18 that during the exercise, which will take place from February 10-20, the two countries’ military forces will practice the tasks of “repelling external aggression during a defensive operation.” The first phase of the response force exercise will end on February 9. During the second stage, from February 10 to 20, the joint maneuvers “Alliance Resolute 2022” will be held.
Earlier, White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki said that Russia “could launch an attack on Ukraine at any time.” The U.S. administration, according to Psaki, considers all scenarios possible.
“None of the options are off the table,” she stressed.
According to the West, about 100,000 troops are now near the border with Ukraine and in Crimea. Moscow denies preparing for an attack and calls on the U.S. and NATO to present “security guarantees,” demanding a reduction of U.S. troops and armaments in Europe and a refusal to expand NATO further eastward.
belsat.eu
