Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys has urged for international intervention regarding next year’s presidential elections in Belarus, labeling the event a tool for Alexander Lukashenko’s regime. After discussing with opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, he stressed the need for continued sanctions and support for Belarusian democratic forces, reflecting Lithuania’s priority for a peaceful and democratic neighboring Belarus.
Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys has issued a call for global action in response to the forthcoming presidential elections in Belarus, which are set to take place next year. His comments followed a meeting with Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, a prominent Belarusian opposition leader. Budrys characterized the elections as a maneuver orchestrated by the Lukashenko regime, emphasizing that an unequivocal international stance is vital to counteract these actions. He reiterated Lithuania’s commitment to support democratic initiatives in Belarus by advocating for the continuation of sanctions and enhancing assistance to opposition forces. The Foreign Minister highlighted Lithuania’s strategic interest in fostering a democratic and tranquil Belarus, a priority he intends to uphold through ongoing discussions at international platforms, including the EU Foreign Affairs Council.
The political climate in Belarus has been fraught with tension, especially after the controversial 2020 elections that saw Alexander Lukashenko remain in power amid widespread allegations of electoral fraud and repression of dissent. The Lithuanian government has consistently advocated for support of the Belarusian opposition and has positioned itself against the repressive measures employed by the Lukashenko regime. In this context, the call for international dialogue and response is critical not only for regional stability but also for reinforcing democratic values in neighboring countries.
In summary, Kęstutis Budrys’s statements underscore the urgency for a united global response to the upcoming Belarusian elections, which he deems illegitimate. His insistence on supporting democratic forces in Belarus and continuing sanctions against the regime highlights Lithuania’s commitment to fostering democracy in its neighboring region. Further, the ongoing discussions within the EU indicate a collective effort to address the human rights violations and political repression present in Belarus under Lukashenko’s administration.
Original Source: www.pravda.com.ua
