Alexander Lukashenko, the authoritarian leader who has helmed Belarus for over thirty years, revealed in an interview with the American magazine Time that he does not intend to seek another presidential term. He also dismissed the possibility of his youngest son, Nikolai, succeeding him. This announcement comes just days before the fifth anniversary of the widespread protests in August 2020 that erupted over electoral fraud accusations which kept him in power.
During the state-broadcasted interview, Lukashenko emphasized that his successor should uphold the political and economic structure established during his rule, advocating against any “revolutionary upheaval.” He articulated that the new leader should build upon the “shoulders of the strong” and develop the country in a “steady and evolutionary” manner, only pursuing significant changes if they can gain societal support.
Lukashenko vehemently denied any dynastic succession plans. Addressing speculations about his son, he stated, “No, he is not the heir. I knew you would ask that. No, no, no. You might even offend him greatly by asking such a question.”
The next presidential elections in Belarus are set for January 26, 2025, in accordance with the Constitution, where Lukashenko extended his presidency for another five years. He also reiterated his strategic alliance with Russia, highlighting Belarus's significance to Moscow. Contrasting his nation with countries like Iran, North Korea, or Armenia, he argued that Belarus could potentially justify a nuclear power confrontation, as reported by the EFE agency.
In late June, Minsk released opposition figure Sergei Tikhanovsky and 13 other political prisoners following a visit by U.S. envoy Keith Kellogg. Tikhanovsky, detained in 2021, faced charges of orchestrating disturbances and promoting actions that severely disrupted public order during the 2020 protests, which called for his wife, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya's electoral victory. These demonstrations were suppressed with support from Russian security forces, underscoring the Kremlin's and President Vladimir Putin's crucial role in Lukashenko's political survival, according to sources.
On June 25, Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel began an official visit to Belarus, welcomed by Lukashenko. Both governments share not only a political affinity with Moscow but also an authoritarian vision of power and a record of repression documented by international organizations.
Lukashenko indicated that both nations, bonded by Western sanctions and authoritarian governance visions, have identified “promising” cooperation areas, including the food industry, joint agricultural machinery production, biotechnology, mining, energy, and healthcare sectors. According to the state agency BELTA, cited by EFE, the Belarusian leader also proposed supplying raw materials and sharing technology for dairy and meat production in Cuba.
As part of his visit to Minsk, Díaz-Canel presented Lukashenko with cigars, rum, and personalized shirts, while Lukashenko reciprocated with flowers and traditional sweets. During the two-day visit, the Cuban president participated in the summit of the Supreme Council of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), a regional bloc comprising Russia, Belarus, Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. In 2020, Cuba became an observer country in this regional bloc, which the Havana regime touts as a geopolitical achievement, although tangible benefits for the population remain unfulfilled.
Insights into Lukashenko's Announcement and Belarus's Political Landscape
Why did Lukashenko decide not to run for another term?
Lukashenko indicated that he does not plan to seek another presidential term to potentially pave the way for a successor who will maintain the current political and economic structures without causing a "revolutionary upheaval."
What is the significance of Belarus's alliance with Russia according to Lukashenko?
Lukashenko reiterated the strategic importance of Belarus to Russia, suggesting that unlike other countries, Belarus could justify a nuclear confrontation between great powers.
What were the circumstances surrounding Sergei Tikhanovsky's release?
Tikhanovsky was released along with other political prisoners after a visit by a U.S. envoy. He had been imprisoned for allegedly organizing disturbances during the 2020 protests calling for his wife's electoral victory.
How does Belarus plan to cooperate with Cuba?
Belarus plans to cooperate with Cuba in various sectors such as the food industry, agricultural machinery production, biotechnology, mining, energy, and health, alongside offering raw materials and technology for dairy and meat production.