During the Zapad-2025 military exercises, a joint effort between Russia and Belarus, two American soldiers were observed. Belarus presented this as an unexpected occurrence. The drills, which are taking place near the borders of NATO countries, are designed to demonstrate the military strength of Russia and Belarus, happening amid tensions between Poland and Russia. The US soldiers were present as international observers, not as participants in the military activities. A video released by the Belarusian Ministry of Defense showed the American soldiers meeting with the Belarusian Defense Minister. The exercise included soldiers from 23 nations, including NATO members Turkey and Hungary. Lieutenant Colonel Brian Shoup was one of the American soldiers identified.
