Ukraine Accuses Russia of “False Flag” Attack in Belarus

The Security Service of Ukraine has made a serious accusation against Russia, claiming that Russia is preparing to stage a deceptive “false flag” attack at the Mozyr oil refinery in Belarus. The alleged purpose behind this planned attack is to falsely implicate Ukrainian saboteurs and drag Minsk into the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The Alleged Plot and Its Disguised Execution

According to a statement released on the Telegram app, the attack is said to be orchestrated by Russian military and intelligence forces. These forces will be sent to Belarus, posing as Wagner mercenaries, who had previously been exiled from Russia after a mutiny staged in June.

A Strategy to Escalate Tensions

The Security Service of Ukraine claims that Russia’s intention behind this planned attack is to shift the blame onto Ukraine and instigate a full-scale war with Belarus. This, they believe, is part of Russia’s ongoing efforts to escalate tensions between Ukraine and its neighboring countries.

Basing Allegations on Captured Russian Serviceman

The Ukrainian authorities state that their allegations are not baseless and are supported by credible sources, including information obtained from a captured Russian serviceman. While the specific details of the evidence have not been disclosed in the statement, they claim to have substantial proof to back their claims.

Belarus: A Key Ally of Russia

Belarus has historically been a close ally of Russia, and this alliance has been reflected in their military cooperation. During Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Moscow’s forces utilized Belarusian territory as a staging ground for their operations towards Kyiv. However, it is important to note that Minsk’s troops did not actively participate in the conflict.

Also Read: Ukraine’s Military Dominates in East & South Despite Difficulties, Says Zelensky

Wagner Mercenaries: A Mutiny and Relocation

Wagner, a Russian mercenary group, experienced a mutiny against the Russian defense establishment in June. Following the upheaval, some of the fighters sought refuge in Belarus under an agreement between the two countries.

No Immediate Response from Russia or Belarus

At the time of reporting, there has been no immediate comment or response from either Russia or Belarus regarding the allegations made by Ukraine. It remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and how these accusations will be addressed by the respective parties.

In conclusion, the Security Service of Ukraine’s accusation against Russia regarding a planned “false flag” attack at the Mozyr oil refinery in Belarus is a significant development in the ongoing tensions between the countries. The situation demands careful monitoring, and international attention will be crucial in ensuring transparency and stability in the region. As events unfold, the implications of these allegations could have far-reaching consequences for regional security and international relations.