Lauge Risom Koch 
A senior Belarusian opposition adviser has warned that Russia and Belarus are expanding military infrastructure along NATO and Ukraine’s borders while preparing for potential future escalation.
A senior adviser to Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya has warned that Russia and the Belarusian government are expanding military infrastructure along Belarus’s borders with NATO countries and Ukraine.
However, he said there is currently no sign of an immediate large-scale invasion.
Military preparations
According to Kyiv Post, Frantsishak Viachorka said Belarusian authorities and the Russian military are rebuilding infrastructure that could support future military operations.
“They are rebuilding Soviet infrastructure, constructing communications networks and military bases,” Viachorka told Kyiv Post.
He also pointed to the deployment of Oreshnik missile systems and Russian nuclear weapons in Belarus.
According to Viachorka, military preparations are taking place along Belarus’ borders with Ukraine, Poland and Lithuania.
Escalation concerns
Viachorka said the current activity suggests preparations for possible future escalation.
“In general, they are ready for escalation, and they are preparing for escalation,” he told Kyiv Post.
He argued that drone and helicopter incidents near NATO borders are being used to test Western military responses and capabilities.
The adviser made the comments during the 2026 Black Sea Security Forum in Odesa.
No immediate invasion
Despite the warnings, Viachorka said there is currently no indication that a new offensive is imminent.
According to Kyiv Post, he believes Russian President Vladimir Putin lacks the resources needed to open another major front at this time.
He also noted that many Belarusian military personnel remain reluctant to participate in combat operations against neighbouring countries.
As a result, he said there is no immediate reason for panic.
Regional response
Viachorka said Poland and the Baltic states are continuing to strengthen their defensive capabilities in response to growing security concerns.
According to Kyiv Post, concerns have increased following reports that Belarus could again be used as a staging ground for Russian military operations, similar to the invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The opposition adviser nevertheless stressed that current developments should be viewed as long-term preparations rather than evidence of an imminent attack.
Sources: Kyiv Post
