Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “Belarusian democratic forces strongly oppose the participation of Belarus in the military conflict against Ukraine on any side. The potential participation is contrary to the wish for neutrality embedded in the current version of the Constitution of Belarus, which has not been canceled yet.
We observe with concern that military escalation is becoming a norm for the regime. Lukashenka is not able to solve economic problems in the country and therefore is looking for enemies and avoiding reforms. This aggravates the already difficult situation in which the citizens of Belarus have to live. We call for solving the country’s internal problems instead of interfering in conflicts of other states.
We fiercely oppose Belarus' involvement in the hybrid conflict being unleashed now against Ukraine. Amidst political tensions, the regime invites Russian troops to the Belarusian territory, which is already an unfriendly step towards Ukraine. The image of Belarus as a peaceful and friendly country has been completely ruined.
The increased rotation of foreign troops on the Belarusian territory jeopardizes the country’s independence and increases tension in the region. It is inconsistent with the national interests of Belarus.
The borders and territorial integrity of states must be inviolable. We condemn any attempt to encroach on foreign territory. We call for the resolution of all conflicts through dialogue without a threat of force or display of military build-up.
Finally, may I remind you that Aliaksandr Lukashenka, after his electoral defeat in 2020, has no right to hold the presidency and represent the state in domestic and foreign policy, including announce and conduct military exercises”.
