Vladimir Putin backs Belarus airbase as Moscow reinforces geopolitical role

Russian President Vladimir Putin has backed the establishment of an airbase in neighbouring Belarus, the latest move by Moscow to project its military power abroad.

The announcement, which comes at a time of tension with the West over Russian involvement in Ukraine and Syria, may also signal the Kremlin's interest in keeping unpredictable Belarus within its geopolitical orbit.

Mr Putin said on Saturday that he had agreed on a government proposal to sign a deal for the military airbase and ordered Defence and Foreign Ministry officials to start talks with Belarus.

Read more