Zelensky Gives Lukashenko 1 Week to Remove Russian Relay Stations in Belarus
Updated
Updated · Meduza · Jun 24
Zelensky Gives Lukashenko 1 Week to Remove Russian Relay Stations in Belarus
3 articles · Updated · Meduza · Jun 24
Summary
A one-week deadline from Volodymyr Zelensky put Alexander Lukashenko under direct pressure to remove Russian relay equipment in two Belarusian regions bordering Ukraine, with Zelensky warning that otherwise “we will” act.
Those stations are believed by Ukraine to feed mesh-network communications for Russian Geran and Gerbera drones, helping direct strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian civilian targets from Belarusian territory.
The threat lands as Moscow reportedly presses Minsk harder to deepen its role in the war, using financial leverage while seeking to expand drone attacks, tie down Ukrainian forces away from Donbas and stage operations near NATO borders.
Belarusian officials have recently promised not to be drawn further into the conflict, but experts are split over whether Zelensky is bluffing or ready to strike inside Belarus—a move that could hand Russia a casus belli.
Nearly a week after Zelensky’s remarks, Lukashenko had not responded publicly, though the Kremlin said the ultimatum would be discussed at his upcoming meeting with Vladimir Putin.
After silencing Russian drone relays, what is Ukraine’s next move to neutralize Belarus?
Is Lukashenko's tightrope walk between Putin and the West about to finally snap?
Is Belarus's diplomacy with the U.S. a play for sovereignty or a Kremlin-approved deception?
Ukraine’s 2026 Ultimatum to Belarus: How Drone Relay Shutdowns Exposed Lukashenko’s Precarious Balancing Act in the Russia-Ukraine War
Overview
In June 2026, Ukraine faced a growing threat as Russia deployed drone relay stations in Belarus, heightening tensions amid joint Russia-Belarus military exercises and increased NATO concerns. President Zelenskyy responded by issuing a strong ultimatum to President Lukashenko, warning of preventive action if Belarus continued supporting Russian operations. This pressure led to the shutdown of the Russian relay stations in Belarus, signaling a temporary de-escalation. However, the situation remains fragile, as Lukashenko tries to balance Kremlin demands with preserving Belarusian sovereignty, while Ukraine stays alert for any renewed military threats from the north.