Russia and Belarus Commence Zapad-2025 Military Drills Amid NATO Tensions
Moscow, Saturday, 13 September 2025.
Russia and Belarus have started joint military exercises, Zapad-2025, amid heightened NATO tensions. These drills, simulating nuclear scenarios, are closely watched due to their potential impact on European security.
A Display of Military Power
The Zapad-2025 exercises, which began on September 12, 2025, are a strategic collaboration between Russia and Belarus, simulating scenarios involving repelling enemy attacks and decision-making around nuclear weapons usage [1][2][3]. These drills occur in the Grodno, Minsk, and Vitebsk regions of Belarus, and are scheduled to conclude on September 16, 2025 [1][2].
NATO’s Response and Regional Tensions
The initiation of Zapad-2025 has heightened concerns among NATO member countries, especially those bordering Belarus, such as Poland and Lithuania, which have taken precautionary measures [1][3][4]. Poland has closed its border with Belarus and initiated its own military exercises, named Iron Defender, involving approximately 30,000 troops [1][4]. Lithuania has also raised its national security alert and increased troop presence at its border [1].
Nuclear Capabilities Under Scrutiny
A significant feature of the Zapad-2025 exercises is the focus on nuclear capabilities. The drills include practice with Russia’s Oreshnik ballistic missiles, which are nuclear-capable [2][3][4]. Belarusian President Lukashenko previously confirmed the presence of several dozen Russian tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, heightening the strategic implications of these exercises [2][4].
Implications for European Security
The ongoing military drills are not only a demonstration of military might but are also perceived as a test of NATO’s preparedness and response capabilities [3][5]. Analysts suggest that these exercises are part of a broader influence campaign by Russia to exhibit strength and resolve, especially following its ongoing involvement in the Ukraine conflict [2][3]. The drills have raised questions about potential future military actions and the stability of the region [2][4].