The Zapad 2025 exercises of Russia and Belarus will take place between September 12-16, approaching NATO borders, which raises concerns among member countries.

The Zapad 2025 military exercises, organized by Russia and Belarus, will take place between September 12-16, including actions conducted near Poland and Lithuania. Lithuania and other NATO countries take these exercises seriously, organizing their own maneuvers in response. Although Zapad is presented as defensive exercises, the past suggests possible offensive intentions, and NATO members are alert to any signs of escalation in the conflict with Ukraine. Organizers claim that the exercises will not exceed 13,000 participants, and Belarus has invited observers from NATO countries and the OSCE.