24 Feb 2022 14:20

Belarus takes measures to ensure security of Russian forces during Ukrainian special operation - Lukashenko

MINSK. Feb 24 (Interfax) - The Belarusian General Staff planned measures to ensure security of the rear part of the Russian group of forces before the start of Russia's military operation in Ukraine.

"Back then [before the beginning of the operation] I received first-hand information that groups had formed in Poland and Lithuania in order to fly through Belarus by air and land to strike the rear flank of the Russian group when a conflict with Ukraine begins, and they worked on this scenario. I warned them then, we will not be traitors and we will not let you fire at the backs of Russian people," Lukashenko said.

The First Man's Pool channel on Telegram, which is close to the Belarussian presidential press service, published footage of Lukashenko's speech.

"Late last night, and that is why you did not sleep, I mobilized you and ordered to develop response measures if they [the group of forces in Poland and Lithuania] want to make this maneuver," he said.

Lukashenko also said that he asked Russian President Vladimir Putin in a telephone conversation on Thursday morning not to use part of the joint military group on Russia's western borders, "so that it is reserved just to be on the safe side, if anything happens suddenly."

"The answer [of Putin to Lukashenko], I promise to you, and I swear that any attack, even a step across the border onto Belarusian territory will mean that they are attacking Russia," Lukashenko said.