Belarus Balances Relations: US Presence at Zapad-2025 Exercise

The Zapad-2025 military exercise, a major joint operation by Russia and Belarus, included the surprising presence of two American soldiers. Belarus described this as a surprise visit, indicating a shift in their diplomatic approach. The military exercise is near the borders of NATO countries. The exercise serves to showcase the combined military capabilities of Russia and Belarus. The US soldiers were present as international observers. The Belarusian Ministry of Defense shared a video of the American soldiers meeting the Belarusian Defense Minister, highlighting the event. This year’s exercise included troops from 23 countries, including NATO members Turkey and Hungary. The presence of US observers may signal Belarus’s attempt to balance its relationship with Russia and the United States. Lieutenant Colonel Brian Shoup was among the American observers.