Opinions & Interviews

Lukashenko believes ‘like never before’ that Ukraine conflict is nearing its end

BISHKEK, 27 November (BelTA) – Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko believes the conflict in Ukraine is nearing its end. He made this statement as he was talking to reporters in Bishkek, according to a BelTA correspondent.

“I believe in this more than ever,” the head of state said.

The president also cautioned: “However, this is a war. At any moment, an unforeseen development can overturn the entire situation. That is the nature of war.” 

The head of state again referenced the peace plan proposals of the U.S. president’s team, which have been largely accepted. “I think both the Europeans [the European Union] and the Ukrainians will understand that this is necessary. Why should the Europeans resist? The size of the army [in Ukraine] is proposed to be limited to 600,000. The Europeans want 800,000. Are you serious? How to maintain an army of 600,000? Poland, with its stronger economy, maintains an army of 200,000. Eight hundred thousand! Can you imagine, even vast Russia has an army of almost that size!” he remarked.

“Well, people like that [in the EU] are going out of their way trying to find fault with it. So, the issue is not the content of this draft peace plan from the European perspective. The issue is that they do not want this peace. I simply do not understand why they need a war. They will not win it. They say the British are not acting in good faith. I think they will come to their senses,” stated Aleksandr Lukashenko.

In response to a question about his readiness to mediate a peace process, the Belarusian president stated: “I am not fond of any kind of mediation. What kind of mediator could I be? We are considered the ‘aggressors,’ together with Vladimir Vladimirovich [Putin]. As you have heard, everyone agrees to negotiate in Belarus and to cooperate with Belarus except for Volodya Zelensky. What have I done to offend him? That is precisely why I am not seeking this role.”

“As I stated yesterday, if this is necessary (and now is the perfect time to correct the past shortcomings of the Normandy Format, when the Europeans participated without the U.S.), then the most reasonable course of action is to return to the 2015 negotiation framework. If you agree, then you are more than welcome to do so,” the Belarusian leader added.

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