The Minister of defense of Belarus Andrei Ravkov commented on reports about the relocation of a large number of Russian military equipment on the territory of the country within the framework of the exercises “West-2017”, describing them as “hysteria.” It is reported by Sputnik of Belarus.
“The flood last time, some “experts” hysteria about alleged possible occupation of Belarus by Russian troops — no more than an attempt of some marginal structures to gain political dividends or to increase your rating due to the exploitation of the topic of the Belarusian-Russian relations””, — he said.
According to him, doctrines “the West” are held every two years in Belarus, in Russia. The Minister stressed that Russia is a strategic ally, with which Belarus is building a common defense space. Ravkov called Russian-Belarusian cooperation “one of the drivers of development” of ties between the two countries. In his opinion, development in this area shows the level of interaction, “which should be between the two brotherly peoples.”
As the Minister added, during Belarus will provide all information to the public, ensuring openness for partners.
“There is no threat and Western States, as the doctrine is defensive in nature, not directed against third countries and only solves the problem of strategic deterrence,” concluded Ravkov.
Joint strategic exercises of the armed forces of Belarus and Russia “West-2017” will be held in September at several sites.