Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, whose legitimacy following the latest election has not been recognized by the EU and a number of states, has publicly warned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky against "fomenting riots".
"You just need to tell them [Western leaders] what is going on in Belarus. You should reach out to Merkel, Macron, Duda, Nauseda, and others, as well as Zelensky, so that they know what is going on in Belarus, the official position. You should not hesitate to warn them of responsibility for fomenting riots," Lukashenko said, addressing the Security Council meeting held via video link, also attended by regional leaders, on August 19, BelTA reported.
"Financing riots means fomenting riots," Lukashenko stressed.
"We see today that this financing continues," he added.
Read alsoLukashenko: Belarus government has someone to rely on"Secondly, saber-rattling and drills at the border with Belarus are counterproductive now. They should keep it in mind. They will be held responsible if anything happens," the Belarusian leader said.
Russia's "support" for Lukashenko
Russia became one of the first countries to congratulate Lukashenko on his alleged win in the presidential elections in Belarus, whereas Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia made no such calls. Ukraine did not congratulate Lukashenko either.
Later, the EU recognized the elections in Belarus as rigged, and declared Lukashenko persona non grata. In parallel lines, the West is preparing a package of sanctions against those involved in the violence and murder of protesters in the early days of protests.
At the same time, eyewitnesses spotted convoys of Russian Guard trucks moving toward the border of Belarus. Earlier, several aircraft of the Belarus air force flew to Russian military bases.
Read alsoZelensky warns Minsk of "tragic consequences" of sending Wagner PMC troops back to RussiaEuropean diplomats and U.S. legislators have expressed concern about Russia's interference in Belarus' affairs. Some political experts believe the "Crimea scenario" is unfolding.
