Андрей Демченко. Скриншот видео Media Center Ukraine
The border between Belarus and Ukraine remains dangerous, and restrictions are in place in border areas, Ukrainian State Border Guard Service spokesman Andrii Demchenko told RBC-Ukraine, commenting on a statement by Belarus’ State Border Committee that it is prepared to facilitate simplified entry for Ukrainian residents to gather wild mushrooms and berries in Belarus’ Almany Swamps nature reserve. Belarus’ Foreign Ministry has also sent a corresponding diplomatic note to Ukraine.
Demchenko said Ukrainians face security threats on Belarusian territory, while the border itself is also equipped with physical obstacles.
“There are minefields and explosive barriers along the border with Belarus… Work is also continuing to strengthen engineering and fortification infrastructure,” Demchenko said.
In his view, Belarus’ State Border Committee is likely trying to improve relations with Ukraine under the current circumstances, even though Belarus continues to support Russia in the war, including through the operation of various technical systems such as relay transmitters.
“And they hope that Ukraine… I don’t know… will accept such a proposal,” Demchenko added.
He stressed that “until Belarus stops supporting the terrorist state, there will be no changes regarding the border.”