 In a statement posted to Telegram, the Belarusian Defence Ministry said the joint anti-terrorist drills are a response to the growing numbers of NATO troops on its border. While the ministry stressed that Minsk is taking all possible measures to prevent escalation, it warned that its reaction will be harsh in the event of a border breach. China's Defence Ministry confirms in a statement published on its website that Belarus held what it called a grand welcome ceremony for Chinese troops who arrived over the weekend.