Lukashenko on hybrid war against Belarus: we are ready to give the toughest response to any aggressive provocations
Belarus has something to counter the threats in the context of a hybrid war that has been waged against the country for several decades. This was stated by President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko at the ceremony honoring graduates of higher military educational institutions and senior officers, as reported by a BELTA correspondent.
"A permanent hybrid war has been waged against us for several decades, and it will only gain momentum in the future. We have something to counter with," the President said.
He noted that over three decades, a modern, combat-ready, well-armed army has been created in Belarus. "We are ready to give the toughest response to any aggressive provocations," the Belarusian leader assured.
Alexander Lukashenko is convinced that missiles, aircraft, and drones are good, but the outcome of any battle or war will be decided by the commander and his subordinates – the soldiers. "We constantly study the experience of modern wars, analyze and use everything that can strengthen our and Russia's defense. This concerns equipment and armaments, and, equally importantly, the professionalism, cohesion, and moral and volitional qualities of soldiers and officers," the President noted.
"Who would have thought recently that in the year of the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory, clear historical parallels with those distant, gunpowder-scented forties would suddenly emerge?" the Belarusian leader remarked.
Alexander Lukashenko stated that hysteria about a "threat from the East" is intensifying in Western media, and some European politicians are even discussing the possibility of using nuclear weapons on the continent. "It is not us, not the Russians, as they (in the West. – BELTA's note) accuse us. They started talking about it," the head of state noted. "The leadership of the European Union has also officially announced that they intend to implement a rearmament program for Europe with a budget of 800 billion euros within the next four years. Who knows what else will happen."
The President also drew attention to the growing tension and escalation of conflicts in various regions of the world: "Simultaneously, the Middle East has been ignited. Israel has attacked Iran. Tensions between India and Pakistan are flaring up again. Tensions around Taiwan continue. And in several African countries, so-called hotspots are perceived almost as natural phenomena. The saddest thing is that thousands of people die daily. Both military and civilians. Not to mention the killed children."
"We also see that the 'enlightened' Europeans intend to continue the senseless slaughter in Ukraine. As they declare, no longer masking or shaming themselves, 'to the last Ukrainian'," the President said.
The ceremony honoring graduates of higher military educational institutions and the senior officer corps, as a sign of special respect for the army, traditionally took place on the eve of the main state holiday - Independence Day.
"With the diploma of the Military Academy, your studies do not end. Already in September, many of you will take part in a significant operational training event - the joint strategic exercise of the armed forces of Belarus and Russia 'West-2025'. For everyone present, this will be a new step in improving professional skills and a test of compliance with the requirements of modern warfare. I am convinced that you will pass this exam with honor," said Alexander Lukashenko.
He congratulated the ceremony participants on the successful completion of their studies and the awarding of general's ranks. "Defending the Motherland is not an easy but a very noble task, and people in uniform in our country have always enjoyed authority and respect among the people. I believe in each of you. I wish everyone good health, peace, family well-being, and great success in your new positions. Godspeed, esteemed officers," said Alexander Lukashenko.
For excellent academic performance and exemplary fulfillment of military duty, Alexander Lukashenko presented letters of gratitude from the President to the graduates of higher military educational institutions.
Major General epaulets were awarded to Dmitry Kuchuk, Dmitry Streshinsky, Andrey Rasyuk, and Alexander Lavrenov.