At a “Youth. Belarus. Future” forum in Minsk on Sept. 17, President Alexander Lukashenko used humor to highlight the close partnership between Belarus and Russia. The 72‑year‑old leader said he and Russian President Vladimir Putin frequently argue and joke about which of them is the “bigger dictator” in Europe.
Long‑standing alliance
Lukashenko, who has led Belarus since 1994, called himself “the last dictator in Europe” and noted that both he and Putin enjoy a unique bond forged over decades. He praised the “unprecedented turnout of millions of voters” in Russia’s recent election, describing it as a response to “cynical attempts from the outside to discredit the campaign and sow discord.”
Strategic support for Moscow
While Belarus has not deployed ground troops to the war in Ukraine, the country continues to serve as a strategic staging ground for Moscow. According to the Kyiv Post, Belarus supplies Russia with key weapons components and permits Russian forces to launch strikes from Belarusian territory. An August report from Ukrainska Pravda highlighted new railway construction in Gomel Oblast capable of handling military trains near the Ukrainian border.
Western pressure and economic moves
Western officials, including Lithuania’s foreign minister, have maintained economic pressure on Minsk, citing ongoing human‑rights concerns. Despite sanctions, Lukashenko announced on Sept. 11 that Belarus has begun exporting potash – a major fertilizer component – to the United States after recent political prisoner releases led to the lifting of U.S. sanctions on the commodity. European Union sanctions, however, remain in place.
Succession questions
Addressing the youth audience, Lukashenko said no one is currently prepared to take over power in Belarus. He warned against critics who claim he is “clinging to power with blue‑knuckled hands,” stating, “Good Lord, let them say it. I have had my fill of this power to the point where I could not possibly want any more of it.” He added that the question of a successor remains unanswered.
International reactions
Western nations continue to criticize Belarus for its alignment with Russia. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys reiterated his country’s firm stance, saying, “We do not see any reasons why our position on Belarus should soften as Belarus is not changing its behavior.” The United States, while lifting sanctions on potash, still monitors Belarusian actions closely.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
