Ukraine Claims Belarus Concedes to Zelenskyy Ultimatum Over Russian Drone Relay Stations
Ukraine says it has secured a quiet but significant concession from Belarus after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy demanded the shutdown of Russian-installed drone relay stations on its territory.
The stations, reportedly former cellular towers, were used to support Russian drone operations by strengthening signals and improving targeting accuracy against Ukrainian territory.
Zelenskyy warned Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko to remove the systems within a week or face action, saying Ukraine would respond if they remained in operation.
Ukrainian military officials said Belarus later shut down the relays, with drone activity reportedly decreasing along the border. However, Kyiv said it was still verifying whether the systems were dismantled or merely disabled.
Belarus has not publicly confirmed a formal shutdown but framed its actions as a step toward de-escalation while maintaining its alliance with Russia.
Analysts suggest the move reflects growing Ukrainian pressure on Belarus, which has been a key regional ally of Moscow during the ongoing war. The development also highlights Kyiv’s expanding drone capabilities and its willingness to target infrastructure beyond the frontline.
Tensions remain high, as Belarusian leadership continues to balance its relationship with Russia while facing increasing military and political pressure from Ukraine and Western-aligned actors.
