Russia and Belarus launched their “Zapad-2025” joint military exercises on September 12, involving drills in both countries and the Baltic and Barents seas. The exercises come amid heightened tensions, following Poland shooting down suspected Russian drones and closing its border with Belarus in response to the “aggressive” drills. The exercises aim to enhance commanders’ skills, cooperation, and training of regional and coalition troops. n18oc_world n18oc_crux