This photo taken on Sept. 15, 2025 shows a scene from the ongoing Russia-Belarus joint strategic military drills Zapad-2025 in Minsk region, Belarus. [Photo/Xinhua]

A key phase of the Russia-Belarus joint strategic military drills Zapad-2025 is underway in Belarus on Monday.

The scenario involves infantry units delivering fire strikes on simulated enemies, including live-fire exercises, aviation support with drone air strikes, motorized fire groups on motorcycles and buggies, and air defense coverage.

It also includes evacuating casualties and damaged equipment using robotic platforms. Notably, infantry operates on the front line without armored vehicles, which are deployed from concealed positions.

According to the Belarusian defense ministry, over 150 journalists from about 15 countries have been invited to observe the final exercise.

The drills, running on Sept. 12-16, aim to rehearse joint Russia-Belarus operations to safeguard the Union State and demonstrate readiness to repel potential aggression.