Belarusian signal repeaters along the Belarusian-Ukrainian border reportedly ceased operations on June 22, following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s demand for their deactivation by June 26. Zelensky announced on June 24 that these Russian-installed repeaters, which enable extended-range drone operations into western Ukraine, have been non-operational since June 22. However, it remains unclear if Belarus has dismantled these devices or merely suspended their use. Zelensky has consistently urged Belarus to dismantle the repeaters, warning of Ukrainian strikes if Belarus failed to comply by the deadline.

The Kremlin is exerting increased pressure on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to deepen Belarus’s involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine. Lukashenko is attempting to balance resisting these demands while maintaining favorable relations with Russia. According to a Wall Street Journal report on June 23, the Kremlin is pushing Lukashenko to allow Russian forces to use Belarusian territory for drone launches against Ukraine and to extend the frontline westward. This would force Ukraine to redeploy troops from the frontline to the Belarusian border. A former Russian intelligence officer indicated that financial support for Belarus might be withdrawn if Lukashenko does not comply. Despite these pressures, Lukashenko has resisted fully committing Belarus to the Kremlin’s military objectives, maintaining a stance of relative neutrality towards Ukraine.

High-ranking Kremlin officials continue to assert Russia’s commitment to its maximalist war aims and its unwillingness to negotiate directly with Ukraine. On June 24, Russian Security Council Deputy Chairperson Dmitry Medvedev expressed confidence in achieving Russia’s war goals on the battlefield, dismissing Zelensky’s legitimacy and rejecting direct dialogue with Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov noted that while Russia is open to discussions with US negotiators, it will not accept freezing the current frontline as a precondition for talks. The Kremlin’s narrative suggests a willingness to negotiate, but only on terms that ensure Ukraine’s full capitulation.

Meanwhile, Russian authorities are addressing gasoline shortages in Moscow amid broader domestic fuel shortages. On June 23, Moscow City removed travel permit requirements for fuel tankers to ensure an uninterrupted supply. Reports indicate that Russia is negotiating with Kazakhstan to purchase gasoline to alleviate these shortages. Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries and logistics since March 2026 have exacerbated these shortages, impacting regions across Russia.

Ukrainian forces continue their long-range strike campaign against Russian infrastructure. On June 24, Ukrainian forces targeted the Orenburg Gas Processing Plant and the Vladimir Space Communications Center, causing significant damage. These strikes are part of a broader effort to disrupt Russian military operations and logistics.

In the Kupyansk direction, Ukrainian interdiction efforts are forcing Russian forces to alter their tactics due to heavy losses. Russian forces have shifted to smaller assault groups and are facing logistical challenges, such as traveling long distances on foot to deliver ammunition. Despite these challenges, Russian forces continue infiltration missions and attacks in various regions, including northern Sumy and Kharkiv Oblasts.