Six years after disputed elections transformed Belarus, Kyiv is renewing a message of solidarity that reaches beyond today’s commemorative statements.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister addressed the sixth anniversary of the mass protests in Belarus following the 2020 presidential election in a post on X.
According to the minister, their choice was met with repression. However, years of pressure, imprisonment, and forced exile have not broken the Belarusian people’s desire for freedom, democracy, and sovereignty.
Six years ago, on August 9, Belarusians clearly demonstrated their will for democratic change and their right to determine the future of their own country
– an X post
The Foreign Minister expressed hope that Belarus would become a free, independent, and European state where its future would be determined by its citizens, not Moscow.
A free Belarus belongs in a free Europe
– Sybiha
The minister added that Ukraine would continue working with Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and all Belarusians seeking democratic change.
Context of the 2020 events in Belarus
In August 2020, a presidential election was held in Belarus. Alexander Lukashenko was declared the winner, but many observers believed that Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya had won.
On August 9, mass protests against the falsification of the election results began in the country. The authorities brutally suppressed the demonstrations and launched a campaign of repression against the opposition.
Ukraine emphasizes its support for the Belarusian people and maintains contact with Belarusian opposition figures, prioritizing freedom, sovereignty, and the country’s European choice.
The distinction between the Belarusian people and the actions of the Lukashenko regime highlights shared values with Europe and calls for respect for human rights in the region.
Overall, Ukraine’s position is one of support for the Belarusian people and a call for respect for human rights, sovereignty, and the country’s European course, encouraging peaceful and democratic progress.