Belarus is a landlocked country located in Eastern Europe, bordered by Russia to the east and northeast, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west, and Lithuania and Latvia to the northwest. Its geography is largely defined by flat plains and gently rolling hills, making it one of the most level countries in Europe. This terrain is part of the Eastern European Plain, which contributes to Belarus's rich soil and strong agricultural sector.
The country is characterized by an abundance of rivers, lakes, and wetlands. The Dnieper, Pripyat, and Western Dvina are major rivers that play important roles in transportation, irrigation, and energy production. Belarus also has more than 11,000 lakes, including Lake Narach, the largest in the country. Marshlands, particularly in the south within the Polesia region, create important ecological zones that support diverse plant and animal life.
Forests cover approximately 40% of Belarus's territory, with large areas of pine, birch, and mixed woodland. These forests are vital for the country’s timber industry and biodiversity. The climate is temperate continental, with cold winters, mild to warm summers, and moderate precipitation throughout the year.
Belarus's central location and flat geography have made it a historical crossroads for trade and conflict, contributing to its strategic significance in Eastern Europe. The land's natural resources and fertile soil continue to support agriculture, forestry, and energy production.
|