Until a year ago, Minsk still maintained good relations with Kiev: in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict of 2014, Lukashenko took an emphatic neutral stance. It is not without reason that peace negotiations took place in neutral Minsk. Until three months ago, Lukashenko also refused to recognize Russia’s annexation of Crimea.
After Putin came to the aid of Lukashenko in crushing protests against his regime, Lukashenko took a different tone with Ukraine. Thus, the country’s western course became a threat to Belarus mentioned† In Kiev, a prominent Belarusian activist was found dead in a park. It suspect is that Belarus is behind the murder.
Criticism impossible
The invasion of Ukraine has shocked many Belarusians, says journalist Aplevich. “I don’t know anyone who supports the Russian aggression in Ukraine. Also, people are surprised that our government allows the Russian army to use our territory.”
The indignation can only be safely expressed in a family circle. This week became a student arrested because he had criticized the invasion to fellow students; another was arrested for criticism in a Telegram group.
Signs of resistance can nevertheless be seen in the center of Minsk:
–
