Official statements from Belarusian or Russian government, major news agencies

Belarus Uses Air Force to Down Russian Shahed Drone for First Time

Aug 29, 2024, 08:05 AM

In a significant development, Belarus has reportedly used its air force to shoot down a Russian Shahed drone for the first time. The incident occurred on the night of August 29, at 03:30, when a Russian drone, part of an attack on Ukraine, accidentally entered Belarusian airspace in the Yelsk district. Belarusian aviation, including fighter jets, was scrambled following an order from President Alexander Lukashenko. The drone was tracked for approximately 20 minutes before being shot down over the Homiel region. This marks a notable moment in the ongoing tensions involving Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine.