According to Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, what Vladimir Putin desires goes beyond merely seizing territories; he also seeks compliant governments and complete 'Russification' of these nations.
She told Euronews that although the protest movement in her country was mostly forced underground, it also means people are preparing to rise up when the time is right.
Regarding potential shifts in Russia affecting Belarus, Tsikhanouskaya believes that "if changes occur in Russia, this could diminish Alexander Lukashenko’s position and inspire another uprising of the populace. This situation might lead to success for Ukraine, weakening both Putin and Lukashenko."
However, transformations in Russia could also originate from changes within Belarus," Tsikhanouskaya stated, noting that there are "greater opportunities to alter the leadership in Belarus compared to Russia.
This ongoing suppression that we've endured for nearly five years has not led people to forgive, forget, or renounce their pro-European views.
The Belarusian human rights organization Viasna reports that more than 50,000 individuals have been arrested for political reasons since large-scale demonstrations began following the 2020 presidential elections won by Lukashenko. Additionally, at least 5,472 people have faced conviction in connection with politically motivated criminal proceedings.
Approximately 300,000 Belarusians are estimated by the United Nations to have departed from their nation since then, primarily heading to Poland and Lithuania.
As stated by Tsikhanouskaya, around 15 to 20 individuals continue to be held captive daily in Belarus.
She states that he acts as though thousands of individuals are still gathered in front of his residence.
The apparent tranquility of the countryside does not imply that people have surrendered. Instead, it indicates that individuals are gearing up and will be prepared once an opportunity arises.
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