Belarus militia practices protest suppression drills amid war tensions

Belarusian internal security forces have been conducting extensive drills across the country to practice dispersing mass protests. The exercises involve OMON units, internal troops of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and traffic police, which temporarily block city centres while training. Former officer Uladzimir Żyhar, now an analyst with BELPOL, said the drills are unusual because they are not tied to any upcoming election or public event.

Żyhar suggested two possible motives: preventing unrest if economic hardship pushes citizens onto the streets, and preparing for a shift in Belarus's role in the war against Ukraine, ranging from serving as a launch point for Russian attacks to a possible domestic mobilisation. While Belarus has allowed Russian forces to use its territory, there is currently no formal mobilisation, but the drills indicate the regime is ready for various scenarios.

The exercises reflect heightened internal security measures as Belarus navigates its relationship with Russia and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.