The resolution “On measures to ensure border security” was published on the national legal portal of Belarus.
This document introduces restrictions on stay and movement in the border zone with Ukraine on the territory of the Gomel region. This regards Loyev, Brahin, and Khoiniki districts.
It is noted that the ban comes into effect on December 22, 2022. The deadline for its completion is not specified.
However, restrictions on staying in the border area in these areas were in effect before.
On November 30, 2022, the State Border Committee of the Republic of Belarus introduced the restrictions until March 1, 2023.
At that time, it was noted that restrictions on movement in these areas do not apply to owners of land plots, persons performing official duties in these areas, and those participating in border protection.
At the same time, the Belarus Hayun monitoring group notes that the new document does not single out the owners of land plots but makes an exception for those who visit their place of residence or relatives.
“The only sensible explanation is that the new document is a legislatively affirmed prior introduction of restrictions,” the monitoring group added.
It should be noted that the day before, the movement of Russian equipment across the territory of Belarus toward the border with Ukraine was recorded.
It included armored vehicles, trucks, and military communication vehicles.
At the same time, it is not clear whether the equipment is being moved for joint exercises of the Belarusian and Russian military or is being transferred to the border areas.