Opinions & Interviews

Lukashenko on Ukraine settlement: Americans or Europeans will not help

MINSK, 22 November (BelTA) – Belarus’ interests should not be infringed upon in the course of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said during a Q&A session titled “Open Microphone with the President” at Minsk State Linguistic University on 22 November, BelTA has learned.

"I don't want war on our land. But, unfortunately, the escalation continues. How should I act in this situation? In no case should we get involved. If a clash between Russia and NATO begins, it will not be easy for us either. We do not want war on our territory, we do not want them to fight for their interests here, at our expense," Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed.

The president said that he had never asked for mediation in negotiations between Russia and Ukraine and generally does not like this thing much. But it so happened that the conflict broke out near Belarus, and he, of course, is interested in its peaceful settlement. After all, the future of Belarus depends on it. Only for this reason, not for PR purposes that the head of state had to provide some assistance to the parties and still does.

"We are three Slavic peoples. No Americans, or Europeans will do us any good or help us. We must sit down and come to an agreement," Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed. “Why in Belarus? Because this is happening near our fence, our border. Our interests must be respected. We want our interests to be met when they reach settlement on Ukraine."

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