Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the EU on the joint strategic military exercise ZAPAD-2025
European Council / Council of the European Union
Council of the EU
Statements and remarks
17 September 2025 19:30
The European Union has been closely monitoring the joint strategic military exercise ZAPAD-2025, taking place on the territories of Belarus and Russia, for the first time since the start of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine on 24 February 2022.
In light of Russia's ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine and following the repeated violation of the airspace of our Member States by Russian drones, a drill such as ZAPAD-2025 does not demonstrate a commitment to de-escalation and peace.
The military participation of other countries in ZAPAD-2025, in the context of Russia's war against Ukraine, including from the territory of Belarus, is a matter of serious security concern for the EU.
The EU expects Russia and Belarus to fully comply with their international commitments, including the OSCE's 2011 Vienna Document.
The EU remains vigilant of any potential security threats surrounding ZAPAD-2025.
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