Russia and Belarus begin military drills near Belarusian border with Ukraine

Exercises come as Russia has amassed forces along its own border with Ukraine

Russia and Belarus have begun joint military exercises close to the Belarusian border with Ukraine, part of 10 days of drills seen as a significant element in the Kremlin's menacing posture towards its neighbour.

Up to 30,000 Russian troops, as well as almost all of the Belarusian armed forces, are taking part in the drills, which began on Thursday. They come at a time when Russia has also amassed forces along its own border with Ukraine, and in the annexed Crimean peninsula.