VLADIMIR PUTIN has been left reeling as Belarus, a potential key ally, has refused to join the war.

Alexander Lukashenko, Belarus’ leader, has said he has no plans to join Russia’s military operation in Ukraine, according to Belarussian state news agency Belta. Mr Lukashenko has also denied allegations that Russian troops attacked Ukraine from Belarussian territory. This marks a major change in stance, as Belarus has previously said it would step in to support Russia if needed.

Mr Lukashenko reportedly told the Belarusian military: “[Putin] gave me a detailed introduction to the situation and most importantly, to the development of the situation.”

He added troops would not be involved in the invasion but could be called upon “if necessary”.

The U-turn from Belarus comes as Putin’s war effort appears to be struggling.

So far, Russian troops have failed to capture Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital.

They have also failed to establish air superiority with Ukrainian drones and fighter jets still flying.

Earlier this week, a US defence official told the Guardian that Belarus may have been preparing to send soldiers into Ukraine in support of Russia.

Meanwhile, images also emerged of trains loaded with tanks arriving in Brest, a city in south-west Belarus.

There have also been reports of missile and aircraft launches to Ukraine from inside Belarus.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has previously condemned the country for its alleged attacks.

He said: “You aren’t on the same side with us in the war that is going on now.

“The Russian military is launching missiles at Ukraine from your territory.

“From your territory they are killing our children, they are destroying our homes and trying to blow up everything that has been built for decades.”

EXPRESS-online

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