Russia is in the final stages of a de facto annexation of Belarus. The current array of military, political, and economic integration achievements by the Russian Federation in Belarus already poses threats to the West. Reported by TSN. This information comes from Kontrakty.UA.
This is mentioned in a report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
According to analysts, while Moscow’s efforts to de facto annex Belarus within the framework of the Union State are not yet complete, they have already made significant progress. This necessitates NATO to reassess the implications of increasing Russian control over Belarus, as well as the capabilities and resources that Moscow may subsequently utilize against the Alliance, the U.S., and Ukraine.
It is noted that the Kremlin is transforming Belarus into a strategic partner, assisting Russia in extending its influence globally.
Russia will leverage its recent yet deeply entrenched achievements in Belarus to offset losses from the war against Ukraine, accelerate its post-war recovery, and prepare more swiftly for future conflicts.
"Policymakers need to start planning for a future where Belarus is not only a subjugated nation but effectively an extension of the Russian Federation," analysts emphasized.
Russia is attempting to take control of all aspects of governance in Belarus. Key areas include military, political, and economic integration of both states. This will entail, among other things, the permanent stationing of Russian troops in Belarus. The Russian authorities are highly likely to exploit the country’s population of over 9 million people and its strategic location on NATO’s eastern flank, as well as its economic resources.
The Institute underscores that while Russia has not completed its attempt to de facto annex Belarus, it has already "reached stages that pose a threat to the security of the U.S., NATO, and Ukraine, as well as a threat to the continued existence of Belarus as a sovereign state."
Analysts warned that Russia does not need additional integration gains in Belarus to constitute a threat to the West.
"The current set of military, political, and economic integration achievements by Russia in Belarus since 2020 already creates threats for the West that policymakers must consider," stated the ISW.
Recall that recently Belarus has again increased its military presence near the border with Ukraine, but at this moment, there is no threatening strike group directed towards the border.