As the war between Russia and Ukraine entered its fifth day on 28 February, and as talks between the Russian and Ukrainian governments were set to take place, local news reports suggested that troops from nearby Belarus were set to enter combat. The significance for the tyre industry is that, as well as obvious and tragic implications for Ukraine and its domestic tyre business, there is now evidence that the conflict’s ramifications are reaching neighbouring countries. But where does Belarussia’s leading tyre manufacturer, Belshina, fit into this picture?