Why Belarus Is Backing Russia in Its War in Ukraine

The article presents a comprehensive overview of Belarus's geopolitical alignment, particularly its relationship with Russia and the role it has played in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, Belarus, under the leadership of President Alexander Lukashenko, has fostered a close relationship with Russia. This alignment became increasingly evident during Russia's invasion of Ukraine, where Belarus served as a strategic staging ground for Russian troops.

The significance of Belarus in the conflict stems from its geographical positioning. It shares a lengthy border with Ukraine and is situated close to Kyiv, Ukraine's capital, making it an advantageous base for Russian military operations. Additionally, Belarus's location bordering NATO members Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia, and its proximity to the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, underscores its strategic importance to Moscow.

Belarus's inclination to aid Russia in the war is rooted in its historical and economic dependencies. Lukashenko, once trying to maintain a degree of independence, shifted closer to Russia following the 2020 political crisis in Belarus. Russian support for Lukashenko's regime, manifested through financial aid, preferential energy deals, and political backing, has solidified Belarus's alignment with Moscow. This bond was further highlighted by Putin's visit to Belarus in December 2022, a rare foreign trip for the Russian leader.

Militarily, Belarus has facilitated Russia's invasion by hosting joint drills, allowing the movement of Russian troops and equipment close to the Ukrainian border. In a significant move, Belarus abandoned its neutral status shortly after the invasion began, legally enabling the hosting of Russian military forces. This military cooperation has escalated with Russia positioning tactical nuclear weapons, Iskander missiles, and advanced air defense systems in Belarus.

In response to Belarus's involvement in the Ukraine conflict, Western nations have intensified sanctions against Minsk. These sanctions, initially imposed following Lukashenko's post-election crackdown, were expanded to target Belarus's military capabilities and economic interests. The sanctions aim to challenge Belarus's economic model, which heavily relies on Russian oil and potash exports.

Despite the sanctions, Lukashenko's regime remains resilient. The country witnessed protests and acts of sabotage against Russian military logistics, reflecting some level of domestic opposition. However, Lukashenko has maintained control, demonstrating the limited impact of external pressures on altering Belarus's alliance with Putin.

In summary, Belarus's role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict is a reflection of its deep-seated ties with Moscow, shaped by strategic geographical considerations, economic dependencies, and political alignments. While the sanctions have exerted some pressure on Belarus, they have not significantly swayed Lukashenko's allegiance to Putin, illustrating the complexities of geopolitical relationships in the region.