Belarus and Russia Flex Military Might in Show of Force to Europe

Sun Oct 19 2025 23:35:59 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Joint military exercises featuring Belarusian and Russian forces are sending a strong message to Europe amid ongoing tensions in the region.

The recent military drills, named 'West 2025', held 45 miles from Minsk, showcased extensive firepower from Belarus and Russia, including aerial bombings and artillery displays. Despite claims of defensive intentions, the timing coincides with heightened tensions due to ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and drone incidents involving Russian incursions into neighboring nations. Observers from 23 different countries, including NATO members, were present, highlighting both the transparency aimed by Belarusian authorities and potential intimidation towards European nations.

In a large field 45 miles (72km) from Belarus' capital Minsk, a battle is raging.

There are giant explosions as Sukhoi-34 bombers drop guided bombs. Huge plumes of smoke darken the sky.

The whole area echoes to the sound of exploding mortar and artillery shells. Helicopter gunships join the attack, while surveillance drones sweep overhead to view the damage. It's only an exercise, though.

Together with other international media, we've been brought to the Borisovsky training ground where Belarusian and Russian forces are taking part in joint manoeuvres. It's part of the Zapad-2025 ('West 2025') military drills, which are planned exercises taking place every four years. The last iteration in 2022 involved 200,000 troops, while this year's exercises featured fewer soldiers. Officials from both Moscow and Minsk maintain that these drills are purely defensive and aimed at strengthening security.

However, Polish officials have voiced concerns, dubbing the drills as 'very aggressive.' The exercises occur during a particularly tense time in Eastern Europe, as Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to loom large and accusations of airspace violations by Russian drones have surfaced. In a bid for transparency, Belarus invited international observers for the drills, signaling a complicated message towards Europe amidst rising military intimidation.

Belarus insists there is nothing to hide, but the sheer scale of the exercises raises eyebrows, prompting considerations about Moscow's intentions and the broader implications for European security.