More than four years after Russian forces launched their attack on Kyiv through Belarus, Ukraine is continuing to reinforce its border with its northern neighbor, keeping the area heavily fortified against any potential threat.

What was once a busy border crossing has become a restricted zone filled with landmines and closed to civilians.

Along the 1,084-kilometre border, roads are covered with anti-drone netting, while razor wire and rows of concrete anti-tank barriers, known as "dragon's teeth," line large sections of the frontier.

An Associated Press team visited parts of the northern border earlier this month after tensions rose between the two countries. Ukraine had asked Belarus to remove Russian communications relay stations installed to extend the range of drones used in attacks on Ukrainian cities.

According to Ukrainian officials, Belarus complied with the request, helping ease tensions between the two countries.

Although Ukraine says it has seen no signs of a Russian troop buildup inside Belarus, officials insist that strengthening the border remains a key security priority.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has repeatedly said his country's forces will not join the war unless Belarus itself is attacked.

However, residents living near the border say they remain concerned that Belarus could become more directly involved in Russia's war against Ukraine.

For many local people, the extensive fortifications serve as a reminder of the early days of the war while also providing reassurance that Ukraine is preparing for any future threat.

Ukrainian border guards continue to patrol the area around the clock using armored vehicles, drones and advanced surveillance systems.

Officials say work to reinforce the border will continue, describing Belarus—Russia's closest military ally—as a long-term security concern.