US is monitoring deployment of Russian forces in Belarus

This was stated by White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre when asked to comment on Putin's visit to Minsk, Ukrinform reports.

"We have long been concerned about the role of Belarus in Russian aggression," she stressed.

Jean-Pierre noted that the Minsk regime allowed the Kremlin to wage war against Ukraine from its territory, which Russia uses as a springboard for its troops.

"We continue to closely monitor Russia's strategy of use of force. This is something we have done and will continue to do, including in Belarus," the White House spokeswoman said.

She added that the United States remains in close contact with Ukraine, which is now repelling Russian aggression.