Russia and Belarus have commenced significant military exercises, known as Zapad-2025, which have heightened tensions across Eastern Europe. These drills come on the heels of a recent drone incursion into Poland, prompting Poland to deploy 40,000 troops to its border and close entry points to Belarus. The exercises include the deployment of hypersonic missiles and bombers, with Russia showcasing its military capabilities in the Barents Sea. NATO is on high alert, concerned about the potential implications of these exercises, particularly regarding their positioning near its eastern flank. As the international community watches closely, the situation underscores fears of further escalation in the region.