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MINSK, 10 August (BelTA) - The violation of the Belarusian state border by Ukrainian strike drones is a very serious incident. These criminal actions radically escalate the situation and represent a dangerous attempt to expand the zone of the current conflict in our region, the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in connection with the recent launch of Ukrainian military drones into the territory of Belarus, BelTA has learned.
“On 9 August 2024, a group of strike drones launched from the territory of Ukraine violated the Belarusian state border and was shot down by the air defense forces of our country. This is a very serious incident, which will not be left without proper international legal assessment,” the ministry said. “These criminal actions radically escalate the situation and represent a dangerous attempt to expand the current conflict zone in our region. An attempt is made to involve Belarus, which has always advocated a peaceful settlement of the conflict and an end to bloodshed.”
According to the ministry of foreign affairs, such steps are taken by the Ukrainian authorities with the apparent connivance or even incitement of well-known external players. “We strongly urge these parties to come to their senses and stop. We appeal to the peoples of neighboring Europe and warn: if the conflict expands, it will engulf the entire region and will spread to the EU countries as well. There will be no winners! Cool down your belligerent politicians!” the Belarusian ministry of foreign affairs said.
Due to the danger of the situation and global risks, the Belarusian ministry of foreign affairs will immediately bring detailed information about the incident to the specialized structures of the UN and the OSCE, as well as to the members of international organizations and associations, where the Republic of Belarus holds membership. “We will also initiate appropriate consultations with our allies and partners, including through international structures,” the ministry said.
“Belarus will fully use its right to self-defense and properly respond to any provocations or hostile actions,” the ministry added.