After the start of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine, the regime’s rhetoric has become more aggressive, including towards neighboring countries. We explain below why supporting democratic Belarus is not just a humanitarian but also a strategic necessity for Europe’s security.
ANTI-WAR SENTIMENT IN BELARUS PREVENTS NEW WARS
The sentiment of the absolute majority of society is a key factor preventing the Belarusian army from becoming a full participant in Russia’s aggression. The Second World War, which ravaged Belarus, touched every family, claiming the lives of people’s loved ones and destroying livelihoods and property.
Essentially, the war became a tragic part of history for each of us. For Belarusians, there is no narrative of “We Can Do It Again”. There is only “Never Again”.
LUKASHENKA IS WILLING TO GIVE PUTIN BELARUS’ TERRITORY FOR A REPEAT ATTACK ON UKRAINE OR EU COUNTRIES
If Putin wants it, there is no doubt it will happen. In 2020, Lukashenka claimed that attacks on Ukraine would never occur from Belarusian territory. Some believed this but now it’s obvious that none of his promises can be taken seriously. After Belarus became a launchpad in Russia’s attack on Ukraine, “security guarantees” are no longer possible. You cannot negotiate with dictators, let alone rely on their promises.
SUPPORT FOR DEMOCRATIC BELARUS IS NOT A HUMANITARIAN ACTION BUT AN INVESTMENT IN THE SECURITY OF THE ENTIRE REGION
As long as Belarus is controlled by the regime, it remains a puppet in the hands of the Kremlin. Democratic changes in the country will allow Belarus to stop being a threat to its neighbors and become a responsible partner for Europe and a regional security donor.
LUKASHENKA IS UNABLE TO RESIST PUTIN’S PRESSURE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE WAR
Lukashenka’s resistance to Putin is a false propaganda narrative. Lukashenka is doing exactly what Putin demands. He has provided Belarusian railways and airports as infrastructure for military operations, hospitals for treating wounded Russian soldiers, and training grounds for mobilized troops.
In addition, the regime has allowed the Kremlin to use Belarus’ territory for its attack on Ukraine, supplied ammunition to Russia, and offered to host the Wagner PMC in the summer of 2023.
BELARUS’ FUTURE IS COOPERATION WITH NEIGHBORS, NOT WAR
The future that Belarusians want for themselves and their children is peace, not war. Partnership and peaceful coexistence with all neighbors, including Western countries, are important priorities for democratic Belarus. We have nothing to fight for with our neighbors.
RUSSIAN NUCLEAR WEAPONS STATIONED IN BELARUS ARE A THREAT TO BELARUSIANS
Decisions on the use of nuclear weapons are made in the Kremlin. If Putin decides to attack Ukraine or any other country, Belarus’ territory will face retaliation strikes.
The Kremlin uses Belarusians as a human shield. This turns Belarus into a target. At the very least, for this reason alone, nuclear weapons must be returned to Russia.
