https://medium.com/dfrlab/russian-military-equipment-spotted-in-belarus-as-tensions-heighten-with-ukraine-e80475954175
Russian military equipment spotted in Belarus as tensions heighten with Ukraine
BM-27 220mm multiple rocket launchers spotted on trains in Belarus, some within range of the Ukrainian border
By Michael Sheldon
On January 17, 2021, Russian military equipment arrived in Belarus. Trains transporting BM-27 220mm multiple rocket launchers and other materiel were spotted in the Belarusian cities of Minsk, Gomel, and Rechitsa, the latter two near the Ukrainian border. It is expected that more equipment will arrive throughout the week.
In recent months, Russia has deployed forces and equipment to the northeast, east and south of Ukraine. This latest deployment would apply additional pressure on Ukraine along its northern border, due north of Kyiv.
Belarusian state media BELTA reported that Russian military hardware arrived in Belarus for “Allied Resolve” joint exercises, taking place on the western and southern borders of the country. Nonetheless, these developments are concerning given their timing, the scale of the Russian buildup, and the involvement of equipment originating from the Russian far east. According to the report, the exercises are scheduled for February.