Belarusian Killed In Syria Buried Under Russian Flag

According to media reports, 42-year-old soldier from Hrodna was killed in a combat operation in Syria.

About 50 people, among them Russian and Belarusian military men, came to Uladzimir Bekish’s house to pay last respects. The military man will be buried in the cemetery of the city of Auls, Belsat reports.

Head of Ideological Work Department of the Defense Ministry Colonel Uladzimir Makarau refused to comment on the situation.

The man was buried in a military uniform, probably the air force one.

The photo shows the body of the deceased covered with the Russian flag. The coffin is carried and accompanied by a guard of honor of the Belarusian army.

The deceased's relatives are following the coffin, as well as two men in a green uniform with Russian chevrons.

The Belarusian army has no official relation to the conflict in Syria. Since September 2015 Russia has been involved in the military operation in this country on dictator Bashar al-Assad’s side. The aerospace force, marines, troops and military fleet of Russia are engaged in the operation.

The Russian legislation allows foreigners to serve under contract in the Russian army. It's enough to write an application, pass a medical examination and a military selection.

In addition, citizens of Belarus in some cases can obtain Russian citizenship under a simplified procedure.