Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko explained why Russian propagandists had been hired to work in the Belarusian National State TV and Radio Company.
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While talking to employees of the food company Agrokombinat Dzerzhinskiy on August 21, he said the Russian reporters had been hired after some employees of the Belarusian state television and radio company had decided to take to the streets and protest, BelTA has learned.
Lukashenko said he had spoken against pressuring people into staying.
"If someone wants to quit, he or she should easily do it. Don't make them stay. Even if they are forced to stay, they will still hold a grudge. If they want to quit, they should have the freedom to do it. I've openly told workers so," Lukashenko said.
"They have to understand that competition on the market is tough. I've asked Russians to lend us two-three groups of reporters just in case. Six to nine people from the most advanced television company. Our young specialists should see how work should be done," he said.
"The situation has been stabilized. Those, who want to work, do. Those, who don't, don't. I've even asked Russians to lend me reporters to cover the president's work and set an example of good work. I know these people. Television is normal," Lukashenko added.
Russia "support" for Lukashenko
- Russia "support" for Lukashenko Russia became one of the first countries to congratulate Lukashenko on his alleged victory 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 the ex-president himself 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 reported the movement of convoys of Russian Guard trucks toward the border of Belarus. Earlier, several aircraft of the Belarus air force flew to Russian military bases.
- European diplomats and U.S. legislators have expressed concern about Russia's interference in Belarus' affairs. Some political experts believe the "Crimea scenario" is unfolding.
