Alexander Lukashenko made his controversial remark during his visit to the Church in Kopys, in the Orsha district. 

As Belta reports, the Belarusian President emphasised that his neighbouring countries “believed they had everything„, yet still “purchase buckwheat and salt from Belarus as they face shortages”.

The authoritarian leader of Belarus called on neighbouring countries to “protect peace and live in harmony with each other.” 

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He underlined that the main thing which the people want is „peace, harmony and friendship,” as Belta reports. He noted that these have always been an important characteristic of Belarusian people.

Since the outbreak of the war two months ago, Belarus has remained among the most loyal allies of the Kremlin. Many political observers agree on the fact that Belarus is de facto under Moscow’s control, given the absolute domination of Russia in virtually every field. 

Alexander Lukashenko himself has been in power for nearly three decades and continues to subject ethnic minorities (mainly Polish) living in Belarus to severe discrimination. 

Image: AP

Author: Sébastien Meuwissen