“NATO does not pose a threat to Belarus and does not increase its presence in the region. We remain vigilant, confined to defense and ready to deter any aggression against NATO allies. We support a sovereign and independent Belarus, ”RIA Novosti quotes Stoltenberg's statement.
On the eve of Lukashenka, he said about NATO troops building up their military might on the country's borders: “NATO troops are clattering their tracks at our gates. There is a build-up of military power along the western borders. "
NATO stated that it is not building up its military presence in Eastern Europe, but is closely monitoring the situation in Belarus.
On August 17, Lukashenko said that he and Russian leader Vladimir Putin "have the same opinion" about the "turmoil" around Belarus.