Lukashenko's charm offensive at Victory Day celebrations with Putin
9:17 AM EDT, May 9, 2024
"You and I still look good," said Alexander Lukashenko, greeting Vladimir Putin. The Belarusian dictator joined the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow.
On May 9, at 3 AM Eastern Time, a military parade took place on Red Square in Moscow to commemorate the 79th anniversary of Nazi Germany's defeat. The 21st Victory Day Parade, observed by Putin as the president of Russia, featured more than 9,000 soldiers and over 70 military vehicles.
Leaders from Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan were among the esteemed guests.
Lukashenko curries favor with Putin
Before the parade, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko met Vladimir Putin. A video capturing their meeting, where Lukashenko appeared to curry favor with the Russian leader, has been trending on social media. "We still look pretty good," Lukashenko complimented Putin.
According to Russian media, Putin and Lukashenko discussed Ukraine and the front situation until 8 PM. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of the General Staff of Russia, Gen. Valery Gerasimov, were also part of the conversation.
Previously, Putin announced Belarus's involvement in Russia's nuclear exercises. "At the request of President Lukashenko, the Belarusian side will participate in one of them," he confirmed.
