Ukrainian authorities have claimed that Belarus has now joined Russia’s invasion, with troops said to have crossed the northern border.
In a statement on Twitter, the country’s parliament said Belarusian troops had entered the Chernihiv region, adding: ‘The information was confirmed to the Public by Vitaliy Kyrylov, spokesman for the North Territorial Defense Forces.’
Belarus is a strong Russian ally and has been a launch pad for the invading troops.
President Alexander Lukashenko has fallen in line with Vladimir Putin’s military assault after earlier playing an intermediary role between the two neighbours.
For the latest updates on the Russia-Ukraine war, visit our live blog: Russia-Ukraine live
He said last week that troops from his ex-Soviet country could take part in Moscow’s military operation against in the country if needed.
State news agency Belta reported that he would be deploying more forces to the border.
He is quoted as saying: ‘Those are well trained rapid deployment groups which are ready to stop any provocation and any military action against Belarus.’
Earlier on Tuesday, Belta reported that Mr Lukashenko denied Kyiv’s allegations that troops were attacking Ukraine from Belarussian territory.
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