ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses developments in Belarus' defence policy since the beginning of the Ukraine crisis and whether there are any elements of deterrence. It explains the development of Belarus' defence policy and illustrates how connected it is with the historical decision made by Aleksandr Lukashenko in 1994 for deeper integration with Russia in all policy sectors. The chapter analyses the relationship with Russia and public perception of Belarus' geopolitical orientation – views about relations with Russia, the West, the European Union and the US. It attempts to put Belarus' existing defence policy into deterrence strategy categories, arguing that from its official discourse, it is emphasizing its role as a neutral party stressing the importance of dialogue in order to de-escalate tensions between Russia and the West. The chapter analyses the numerous challenges that Belarus is facing in strengthening itself internally and, therefore, providing a credible national deterrence efforts.
