The Russian and Belarusian air forces started joint exercises today amid concerns in Ukraine about potential Russian attacks that could be carried out from the territory of Belarus, DPA reported.

All air bases, training grounds and air defense units of Belarus have been activated in the exercises, the Belarusian Defense Ministry said, adding that the aim of the joint tactical exercises is to improve combat interoperability.

Armenia refused Russia to conduct military exercises on its territory

Belarus, which borders Russia and Ukraine, is a close ally of Moscow but has not been directly involved in Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Kyiv expresses concern that Russia may launch attacks across the Belarusian border, as it did in the initial phase of the Russian invasion.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that he does not want to be drawn into a war, although Ukraine perceives Belarus as part of the conflict, BTA points out.

Russia has deployed thousands of troops to Belarus and recently transferred military equipment to its territory, the agency noted.

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