Putin-Lukashenka closed talks: hybrid coordination, new mobilization wave; Beijing opposes Belarus annexation

Public trade discussions masked closed-door talks in Moscow between Putin and Lukashenka, reportedly covering coordination of hybrid aggression and preparation for a new Russian mobilization wave. Belarus compensates for not sending troops by supplying fuel and microchips, and its training grounds may host Russian mobilizers. Beijing, despite waning interest in Minsk, is categorically opposed to Belarusian annexation, a stance that constrains Russian options.