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Zelensky warns Russia may expand missile threats from Belarus against western Ukraine

Kyivindependent •Tamara Nowakowsky • October 17, 2026

Ukraine's State Border Guard Service spokesperson Andrii Demchenko has separately reported that equipment based in Belarus helps relay or amplify signals for Russian Shahed and Geran drones heading toward western Ukraine and Poland's border region.

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Russia Expands Missile Threats from Belarus Against Ukraine Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russian forces are preparing to escalate strikes against western Ukraine, utilizing Belarusian territory for drone operations and potential ballistic missile deployments. The installation of drone signal repeaters in Belarus is aiding Russian drones targeting Ukraine and Poland. Zelensky emphasized that the deployment of ballistic missiles in Belarus would directly involve Belarus in the conflict, heightening the threat to western Ukraine. The Kremlin's strategy focuses on destroying critical infrastructure, including energy and water supply systems, as winter approaches. Ukrainian air defenses are intercepting many threats, but some munitions are still getting through. Zelensky called for continued deterrence to prevent further Russian aggression. 2 sources 63

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Belarus Poland Ukraine