MINSK, 22 July (BelTA) – Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin has refuted reports that Belarus is allegedly constructing fortifications on its border with Ukraine, BelTA has learned.
Viktor Khrenin described such claims as part of an information war being waged against Belarus. “We have heard these statements and look at them with a smile. Claims that we are preparing some kind of defensive areas… We understand perfectly well that this is done for one purpose only: to create tension in our society and in Ukrainian society as well, driving a wedge between us and portraying us as fierce enemies. This has nothing to do with reality,” he said.
The minister recalled that earlier the Belarusian head of state set the task to equip fortified areas along Belarus’ borders. “This instruction has been fulfilled. Five fortified areas along the western and northern borders have been equipped, and their active improvement continues. There are no plans whatsoever to create any fortified areas or defensive lines on the southern border.”
Viktor Khrenin also noted that Belarus has a state program for the improvement and development of Polesie. “There is active reconstruction and repair of bridges underway, roads are being improved, and new recreational areas for citizens are being equipped. All of this is being perceived as if some kind of preparation is taking place. This does not correspond to reality, and people should simply ignore such claims,” the minister summarized.