Russian Mercenaries Join Forces with Belarusian Military in Joint Drills, Sparking Concerns of Destabilization and Aggression

Mercenaries from the Russian military company Wagner have commenced joint drills with the Belarusian military, just weeks after their failed rebellion against Moscow. The maneuvers, taking place near the border with Poland, were launched with the aim of bolstering Belarus' military capabilities and protecting against potential incursions.

These drills come after Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin pledged support to Belarus, stating that his troops would provide training to help make the Belarusian army the second strongest in the world. Wagner mercenaries have a history of involvement in conflicts, having fought alongside Russian troops in eastern Ukraine, and being deployed to Syria and various African nations. However, the UK government has recently imposed asset freezes and travel bans on 13 Wagner mercenaries over alleged human rights abuses in Africa. Britain has previously sanctioned Prigozhin and other Wagner commanders for their role in Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The rebellion led by Prigozhin posed the most serious threat to Russian President Vladimir Putin's rule, eroding his authority and exposing weaknesses within the government. During the revolt, Prigozhin's mercenaries captured the military headquarters in Rostov-on-Don and drove as close as 200 kilometers to Moscow, downing military helicopters and aircraft along the way. However, the rebellion was swiftly ended after a deal was brokered by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, granting amnesty and permission to relocate to Belarus for Prigozhin and his fighters.

The deployment of Wagner mercenaries to Belarus has raised concerns among opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who fears it will destabilize the country and threaten neighboring nations. Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak has responded by ordering the movement of troops to the border with Belarus, aiming to deter any potential aggressive actions.

The move is seen as a response to the perceived threat posed by bringing Wagner forces into Belarus. It is important to note that some of the rhetoric from both sides could be attributed to early campaigning before parliamentary elections expected in the fall, with the ruling right-wing Law and Justice party expected to lose control. The situation remains tense as the drills continue, and neighboring countries are taking precautions to protect their borders.