Ukraine secures diplomatic victory over Belarus and its Russian ally

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy Demands Belarusian Counterpart Shut Down Russian-Installed Relay Stations

Kyiv, Ukraine - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has urged his counterpart, Belarusian President Aleksander Lukashenko, to shut down four relay stations installed by Russia. The stations, originally cellular communication towers, facilitate the exchange of information between Russian drone operators and allow their unmanned aircraft to fly deep into western Ukraine.

The border between Ukraine and Belarus stretches for 1,084km (674 miles), with the stations located along this border. Zelenskyy stated that Lukashenko allowed Russia to operate equipment that corrects fire on Ukrainian civilians. In response, Zelenskyy issued an ultimatum, stating that one week would be sufficient for Lukashenko to remove the relayers.

If the ultimatum is not met, Ukraine has threatened to strike back at Belarus. The commander of Ukraine’s drone forces made a statement on Facebook, referring to Lukashenko as “a barking dog” and warning him about potential targets in Belarus.

Lukashenko responded by hinting that he may retaliate by targeting the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant, which is located near the Belarusian border. However, it was reported that the relayers had been shut down on Thursday, although the exact circumstances are unclear.

In a televised remarks, Lukashenko stated that the shutdown was a peacemaking step and an attempt to reassure Russia of his loyalty. He also emphasized that Ukraine’s actions may lead to a change in the nature of the war.

Analysts believe that Zelenskyy’s ultimatum has had an impact on Belarusian diplomacy, potentially leading to separate negotiations between Ukraine and Belarus. These talks may help Lukashenko exit his country’s diplomatic and economic isolation by the West and balance Russia’s influence.

Lukashenko is also a member of the US President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace, which may play a role in rebuilding post-war Ukraine.

Source: Al Jazeera