Lukashenko's grip on power wavers as Kremlin influence grows

Aleksandr Lukashenko has been in power in Belarus for three decades. However, in recent years, Minsk's dependence on Moscow has been advancing very rapidly. Russian troops are stationed in Belarus. "Batka" follows almost all Kremlin orders—causing a crisis on the border with Poland and, when necessary, gathering forces at the border with Ukraine to threaten it with potential war involvement.

Lukashenko's weakness was also shown in the case of the German sentenced to death for terrorism. He was pardoned at the last moment. This was probably inspired by Moscow, which wanted to exchange Rico Krieger for the FSB officer Vadim Krasikov, who was detained in Germany. This only shows how dependent the Belarusian leader is on the Kremlin.

Pavel Latushko, former Belarusian ambassador to Poland, believes that Lukashenko is actually pretending to be strong, although, in fact, he has little influence on the fate of the state. Everything is subordinate to Moscow.

Lukashenko's activities as a dictator of Belarus are called terrorist. This includes causing a migrant crisis at the border and the hijacking of a civilian Ryanair plane. Latushko also believes that Lukashenko is a hypocrite, releasing various political prisoners while putting more people behind bars. The Belarusian dissident claims, however, that Lukashenko's power may soon end.

Lukashenko will die. He will die tomorrow. And this will finally happen because every dictator who, like him, does not have the support of society, is destined to see his dictatorship fall. It can happen because the people will overthrow him, or come the day he will finally pass away—says Latushko in an interview with "Fakt."

In his opinion, it is necessary to invest in the Belarusian opposition and the people who want to live in a democratic country. Especially since the situation in Belarus could become tense again in 2025—another presidential election will take place. Lukashenko will certainly run for re-election. Recall that after the results of the previous election were announced, riots broke out in Belarus. Protests lasted several months. At least four people died in them, and many were repressed. Latushko believes that he will be overthrown if the Kremlin does not support Lukashenko again.

Therefore, I repeat once again that the most important thing in this situation is to think about supporting the Belarusian people, who should be the deciding factor about the future of Belarus—urges Latushko.