Defence Minister: key message of new Military Doctrine is that Belarus does not call anyone enemies

The updated Military Doctrine of Belarus preserves and emphasises the peaceful character of the republic – as stated by Defence Minister Viktor Khrenin, commenting on the results of today’s meeting of the Security Council that focused on the draft projects of the National Security Concept and Military Doctrine

According to the Defence Minister, the Military Doctrine is a fundamental document that reflects the main views of the state on peace and war, on the use of military force in response to existing challenges and threats.

“A draft of the updated Military Doctrine has been presented today at the Security Council. Importantly, this document has preserved continuity. The spirit of our doctrine is the peaceful character of our people. We clearly emphasise and assert that the Republic of Belarus does not consider any people as its enemy, despite the actions of their governments. This is the fundamental message,” Mr. Khrenin stressed.

The Defence Minister added that the time has come to revise the document, which had been in force since 2016. He also informed on its main points and amendments, “The doctrine has become targeted: we clearly identify the sources of military threats to Belarus. It has strengthened the connection with the draft National Security Concept: we have clearly outlined and formulated the measures that the state will take in the event of risks, challenges and threats. As part of our response to possible military threats, we have clearly defined and are bringing forward the views of the Republic of Belarus on the use of tactical nuclear weapons deployed on our territory.”

In addition, a new article has been added to the document: it clearly defines Belarus' obligations to its allies. The authors have taken into account the experience of the attempted coup in Kazakhstan in 2022.

Mr. Khrenin added that – based on the results of the work carried out and today’s meeting – the Head of State instructed to further finalise the document before submitting it for approval by the Belarusian People's Congress.