Ukraine launches 'unprecedented' security operation in five northern regions bordering Russia and Belarus
Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) and other defense forces launched enhanced security measures in five northern regions bordering Russia and Belarus, the General Staff reported on Thursday. The operation, described as 'unprecedented' in scale, includes counterintelligence and anti-sabotage activities aimed at preventing enemy infiltration. President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukrainian intelligence has evidence Russia is attempting to draw Belarus more directly into the war.
Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) and other Defense Forces units launched enhanced security measures in five northern regions bordering Russia and Belarus, the General Staff reported in a statement published Thursday.
The measures were introduced following a decision by President Volodymyr Zelensky and are coordinated by the SBU's Anti-Terrorist Center. Participating units include the National Police, Armed Forces of Ukraine, National Guard and State Border Guard Service. The General Staff described the operation as "unprecedented" in scale, citing the number of personnel and resources deployed along the border.
The enhanced security measures are being conducted in Chernihiv, Kyiv, Zhytomyr, Volyn and Rivne regions. The operation includes counterintelligence and anti-sabotage activities aimed at preventing enemy infiltration. Security forces will conduct intensified inspections of residents and search surrounding areas for prohibited items. Temporary restrictions on movement and access may be introduced in certain settlements during the operation. Residents have been warned to expect document and vehicle checks.
"The measures will serve as an effective deterrent against any aggressive actions or operations by the enemy and its ally," the General Staff statement said. The measures are being implemented under martial law.
Belarus's defense ministry said on Monday it had launched exercises with Russian participation, including drills involving units tasked with the use of nuclear weapons. On Friday, Zelensky reported that Ukrainian intelligence has evidence Russia is attempting to draw Belarus more directly into the war. According to him, Russia is considering operational plans involving forces deployed from Belarusian territory toward the Chernihiv-Kyiv axis. He said Kyiv had identified contacts between Russian officials and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko regarding possible new military actions.
"For every possible enemy scenario, we are preparing responses if the Russians truly decide to expand their aggression," Zelensky said.