The working schedule of the President of Belarus is always very eventful. Alexander Lukashenko holds meetings and working sessions on the most pressing issues of the country's development, regularly visits regions, makes foreign visits, and receives foreign guests himself, communicates with journalists, signs decrees and laws… And even when there are no public events, it does not mean that the head of state is not working. However, even during his leisure time, whether it's a hockey practice or chopping wood, Alexander Lukashenko always finds an occasion for another instruction. As he likes to say, one must always proceed from life.
The "President's Week" project is for those who want to keep pace with the head of state, to be aware of the most relevant statements and decisions of the Belarusian leader.
What the President discussed with the famous Russian politician and statesman Dmitry Rogozin and why he visited Minsk; whom Lukashenko called the most media-savvy person in the world and what China's military cooperation has to do with it; what are Belarus's interests in Siberia, and are there prospects for developing cooperation; how much pensioners' wallets will gain in September and why the head of state did not give the Ministry of Education a "pass", sending it for a retake in September. Also, the main details and the loudest statements of the President of Belarus in a two-hour interview with Ukrainian journalist Diana Panchenko. How to prevent Ukraine from disappearing and what novel Zelensky is a hero of; where or with whom the country's troubles began; about Putin's request to cover, "if God forbid something happens"; the nuclear arsenal and Belarus's readiness to repel aggression instantly. All this and much more in the new issue of the BELTA special project "President's Week".
FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE UNITED FATHERLAND. Why Rogozin visited Minsk and what Lukashenko discussed with him
The working week of the President of Belarus began on Monday, August 14, with a meeting with Russian politician and statesman Dmitry Rogozin.
Alexander Lukashenko noted at the beginning of the meeting that Dmitry Rogozin had "completely disappeared from the radar lately, with only sparse notes and reports in the media".
"I am working as I have always worked. In a different capacity, but with much greater potential and taking into account the colossal changes happening in the world of technology," - said Dmitry Rogozin, who previously headed the state corporation Roscosmos for several years, and before that held a number of other responsible positions, including work in the government of the Russian Federation, the military-industrial and diplomatic spheres.
"I am glad to meet today and discuss the entire range of issues that have accumulated over this time. And knowing you as an active person, who cannot stand aside from the main events not only in the region but also in the world, frankly speaking, I am ready to contribute to your experience and knowledge being useful for the benefit of our common ideas, which we share with you, and have for a long time. We have a common Fatherland, and for its sake, we simply must work together. You have many ideas. I know about this. I am ready to use the entire potential of Belarus, the scientific and practical one, for this. If it is beneficial for us, for you. And for the overall unity of Belarus and Russia," - said the head of state.
In turn, Dmitry Rogozin noted that his business trip to Belarus, although short, was very rich in useful contacts. "Meetings with representatives of the industry of the Republic of Belarus, with my old friends, with whom we have never lost our good relations. Today I will be negotiating with them on a number of projects that are primarily related to the work of our scientific and technical center. I think these are interesting things," - he explained.
GROWING WITH SIBERIA. What Potential the President Sees in Cooperation with the Tomsk Region
The phrase of the famous Russian scientist Mikhail Lomonosov is widely known, who said three hundred years ago that Russia's power would grow with Siberia. One of the modern developed regions of this area is the Tomsk region, whose delegation visited Belarus this week. The head of the Belarusian state met with Governor Vladimir Mazur at the Palace of Independence on August 15.
Belarusian-Russian cooperation is also growing with Siberia. Back in May, at a meeting between Alexander Lukashenko and the Ambassador of Belarus to Russia, Dmitry Krutoy, the task was set to significantly increase the volume of cooperation with the Urals, Siberia, and the Far East of Russia.
Last year, trade between Belarus and the Tomsk region increased by 47%, reaching almost $23 million. Positive dynamics are also observed this year: in the first half of the year, growth was almost another 30%.
"But it is absolutely clear that this is extremely little. Trade turnover can and should be at least two to three times larger. There are plenty of growth points," the head of state noted.
He stressed that the Tomsk region is one of Belarus's promising partners in Siberia, as this region possesses significant resource, industrial, tourism, and intellectual potential.
There are plenty of areas for joint work and cooperation. This includes the supply of food products, various machinery, and goods for agricultural needs to the Tomsk region, including amino acids from BNBC. Belarus is also ready to meet the Tomsk region's demand for elevator equipment.
"We believe that our experience and high-quality technologies could also be in demand by you in livestock farming, crop production, as well as in the construction of dairy and grain drying complexes. We are ready to share technologies for cultivating and processing long-staple flax. Your region, like all of Belarus, is a flagship in this regard," the Belarusian leader noted.
Over 60% of the Tomsk region's territory is covered by forests, and the region also has colossal peat reserves. Alexander Lukashenko emphasized that this wealth must not only be used effectively but also preserved, especially from the fires that have become more frequent in recent years. The Belarusian side is ready to share its developments in the production of logging, fire-fighting, and rescue equipment, as well as peat extraction machinery.
Another interesting area is further cooperation in science. The Tomsk region is among the top three leaders in Russia's national science and technology ranking, and the city of Tomsk is called the student capital. "However, I believe the potential for interaction in education and science is far from being fully realised. We must competently and rationally utilise each other's highest competencies," the head of state stressed. "A good example of such intellectual cooperation could be the implementation by your scientists, together with our National Academy of Sciences and companies, of a project for the production of transistors for aerospace and special purposes, which is highly relevant."
"I am convinced that together we are capable of creating the most advanced technologies, eliminating our dependence, Russia's and Belarus's, on the West," added Alexander Lukashenko.
SIGNIFICANT INCREASE. How much will labour pensions grow in Belarus
On August 15, the President signed Decree No. 259 "On Pension Increase". The document provides for the recalculation of labour pensions and their increase from September 1, 2023, by an average of 5%.
In September, Br1.7 billion will be allocated for pension payments, of which Br72 million are additional expenses due to the increase according to the decree.
This decision is in line with the socially oriented policy of ensuring a decent standard of living for the older generation. "Children and pensioners should understand that the state will always lend them a shoulder and protect them," emphasized the Belarusian leader at a meeting in March of this year.
BROTHERS IN ARMS. What Lukashenko thanked China for and in what he supported it
On August 17, the President met with Li Shangfu, member of the Central Military Commission, State Council, and Minister of National Defence of the People's Republic of China, Colonel General, who was on an official visit to Belarus from August 16 to 18.
Military-technical cooperation with China has been developing since 1995. To date, the entire necessary contractual and legal framework for bilateral cooperation has been formed. Military cooperation between the defence ministries of the two countries is carried out in accordance with the agreement on military cooperation dated May 13, 2010.
On the coincidence of views on the world order
At the beginning of the meeting, the head of state warmly welcomed Li Shangfu to Belarus, calling him the most high-profile person in the world. "I am not starting this conversation for nothing about you being the most high-profile person in the world today, because your activity, the activity of the People's Republic of China in promoting its interests, its main ideas on the world order, is heard by the whole world today. The main ideas of the present and future - the prospective world order of the People's Republic of China and Belarus - coincide absolutely. We have been demonstrating this for the last three decades," said Alexander Lukashenko.
"We are absolute supporters of a multipolar world, territorial integrity and the unity of borders and territories established after World War II. We are for non-interference in the internal affairs of states. In short, the entire palette on which China's foreign policy is based is inherent in our leadership as well. You should know that for more than 30 years we have always supported China in all its aspirations, because we consider the domestic and foreign policy of the People's Republic of China to be absolutely just, aimed at the peaceful resolution of all disputes and conflicts," the Belarusian leader emphasized.
On turbulent events in the world and support for friends
"Unfortunately, not through our fault, the world is absolutely unstable today. Very powerful turbulent events are taking place in the world. And we have to be strong. Because it so happened that strength is always respected. In our policy, we rely on a strong economy and powerful diplomacy. And I am very grateful to you for your support in the sphere of military-technical and military cooperation. In this regard, we primarily rely on our friends. And first of all, the Russian Federation and China," said Alexander Lukashenko.
He noted that the current visit is the first for Li Shangfu to Belarus. "I hope it won't be the last. It is very important for our Belarus," the President said.
"All our cooperation, and it is very significant (we have not hidden it from anyone), will in no way be directed against third countries. We do not need this. We need to secure our states and our peoples," the Belarusian leader emphasized.
On friendship with Xi Jinping
Alexander Lukashenko noted that he has developed good and friendly relations with the Chairman of the PRC Xi Jinping: "I immensely respect my friend. We have known each other for a long time. I kindly ask you to convey to him, on behalf of the Belarusian people, the warmest and kindest wishes to him and his family for all that China has done for Belarus recently."
He also asked to convey good wishes to the wife of the PRC leader, Peng Liyuan.
In turn, Li Shangfu, on behalf of the Chairman of the PRC, conveyed the best wishes and warm greetings to Alexander Lukashenko. He noted the great successes in the development of Belarus and the role of the head of the Belarusian state in this. "Allow me to express my sincere and deep respect for your high contribution to ensuring peace and development throughout the world," said the Minister of Defense of China.
He recalled that at the beginning of the year, the President of Belarus paid a state visit to China, during which the heads of state reached important agreements on further strengthening bilateral military cooperation, including in the military sphere. "The purpose of my visit to Belarus is precisely the implementation of important agreements at the level of heads of state and further strengthening of bilateral military cooperation," said Li Shangfu.
FRANK INTERVIEW. At what point did everything go wrong in Ukraine, who is to blame and what to do
During the week, Alexander Lukashenko gave a two-hour interview to the well-known Ukrainian journalist Diana Panchenko. A criminal case has now been initiated against her in Ukraine, sanctions have been imposed, and in 2020 she was among the top most influential women in the country. The head of state had promised this interview two years ago, during the "Big Conversation," and kept his word.
The journalist accompanied the publication of the interview with the following text: "I have communicated with all the presidents of Ukraine. I have watched hundreds of interviews with politicians of various levels from all over the world. I can confidently say: Lukashenko is a unique person. When he became President, Ukraine was a country of hope. And Belarus did not possess even a fraction of Ukraine's potential. 30 years next to Ukraine. Between Russia and NATO. Now we have lost part of our territories, 30 million people, access to one of the seas. At the same time, Belarus's GDP per capita is 2 times higher than ours. There is order in the country, and most importantly, peace. And all this happened before his eyes. Of course, I asked him WHY this happened. The interview contains much that Lukashenko has never spoken about before."
As part of the special project "President's Week," we will briefly recall Alexander Lukashenko's main statements.
UKRAINE. WILL THE COUNTRY DISAPPEAR FROM THE WORLD MAP AND HOW TO PREVENT IT
Naturally, the main topic was the war in Ukraine and the prospects for a peaceful resolution of this crisis, and what to do next. Clashes, Alexander Lukashenko is confident, could and should have been avoided. At any moment, and even now, it can be stopped. Unfortunately, neither then nor now has there been enough firm will and desire to do so. Primarily from the leadership of Ukraine, instigated by the USA.
The United States benefits from confrontation – it's a chance to weaken Russia and get closer to China. However, among Western European elites, there is a growing understanding that the war in our common home needs to end. Of course, this is in the interests of Ukraine and its people, but propaganda does its work. And while President Zelensky is travelling the countries, portraying himself as a hero, the Ukrainian troops are losing thousands of people in the cauldron of a stalled counteroffensive.
This is one of the reasons why Alexander Lukashenko is calling for negotiations to begin as soon as possible. And to reach peace agreements without preliminary conditions, while Ukraine still has a chance to remain a whole state on the world map.
On the sabotage of the Minsk Agreements
The President recalled that the Minsk Agreements required the legislative formalization of the special status of certain districts of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions and the holding of local elections there. "And I offered them: I will hold elections there, I will do as you agree – Putin, Poroshenko. And I will carry out as you decide. Poroshenko refused. Putin agreed to everything," the Head of State said.
He is confident that if this had been implemented then, everything would have been quiet and calm, and would have gradually normalized.
On the war unleashed by Ukraine
Belarus has always behaved very honorably towards Ukraine, emphasized Alexander Lukashenko, which cannot be said about Ukraine's behavior towards Belarus. "The war was already underway. And you unleashed it. The Ukrainians unleashed it, this war against Belarus. An economic war, first and foremost. You imposed a blockade on us in the southern direction. You didn't let our planes through before the Europeans did? You didn't let our cargo through. And then thousands of wagons with mineral fertilizers, which we were loading here, were arrested at the port of Odesa," the President said.
And long before the Russian special military operation, Ukraine deployed four units armed with Tochka-U missile systems near the borders of Belarus: "They deployed the missiles in combat positions. Then they turned them against us. And we had to deal with them during this Russian operation. The Russians destroyed them in the first place," Alexander Lukashenko recalled.
On why Kyiv was not taken, and Zelensky in the cellar
The President called the common opinion in Ukraine that Zelensky defended Kyiv and the Ukrainian army repelled the invasion a fairy tale and a product of the media. This is all created to show "heroism". But the truth is that Ukrainian forces were hiding behind kindergartens, schools, hospitals, and other social facilities.
"And I had a conversation with Putin. He said: 'How will you strike them in Kyiv if they are hiding behind schools and kindergartens?' I am conveying the conversation to you almost verbatim. These are concerns. Another person would have told him: 'Listen, the war is on. If you start a war, fight.' And he spoke the truth when he said: 'We haven't even started yet'," the President of Belarus stated.
"Zelensky was sitting in a basement at that time. He did not repel anyone or anything," the Belarusian leader emphasized.
On Russian Might and Ukraine's Fate
"Now Russia will grind you there. Manpower and equipment. Those motivated, ideologically driven Nazis, as they were called, nationalists, those strong people ideologically, are gone. They have all perished. Who is fighting here now? Those whom you catch on the streets and bring here. They are not prepared. And a few military personnel. They will not cope with this machine. Russia has restructured. Russia has the latest weapons at the front today. There are enough drones already. It's a completely different army now. And the most dangerous thing is that they have a 250,000-strong volunteer corps," the President of Belarus declared.
Alexander Lukashenko noted the significantly higher losses on the Ukrainian side during the so-called counteroffensive and pointed to the danger of Ukraine disappearing as a state. On one side, Russia will cut off Moldova and Transnistria. And regarding Western Ukraine, "the Poles are rubbing their hands, pushed by the Americans." "You will be left with a scrap (of territory. - Ed. BELTA), if anything is left," the Belarusian leader said. "If you don't stop now, this will happen. If you don't sit down at the negotiating table now. Russia is offering this. You don't want to. If you don't want to, so be it. Russia's might is sufficient. And no West will help you in this regard."
On Western Ukraine and Polish Ambitions
"Will Western Ukraine go to Poland?" the journalist asked the President's opinion.
Alexander Lukashenko believes that the Ukrainians themselves will not allow this, but Zelensky is heading towards it, a number of decisions are being made, and the information field is being heated up for this. "A military unit to assist Ukraine has already been created in Poland. If they enter, you will not be able to expel them, because the Americans are behind Poland. Well, there will be Polish territory. Why not accept them into NATO? This will already be Polish territory. They will lead to this. Therefore, everything is being prepared for this," the President said. "This is unacceptable for us, as well as for the Russians. In order not to dismember Ukraine and not to shove it somewhere in parts, it is necessary to stop here and do everything to preserve the integrity of Ukraine. This is what is needed first of all. This is what you, Ukrainians, need."
About the (Non-)Collective West
According to the President, only the USA benefits from the continuation of the war. As for the political elites in Western Europe, on the contrary, there is a growing understanding of the need to end the war. "Western Europe – Germans, French, others, except the British, of course – they are firmly under America, they no longer need this war. Their prominent figures say that the war is not in America, but in our home," the head of state said.
Alexander Lukashenko stressed that the West can no longer be called a "single collective cement."
Why might the USA, at a certain point, give a signal to the Ukrainian leadership to start negotiations? Alexander Lukashenko gave the following answer to this question: "Because they will understand that Ukraine will not win. It will lose. And if Ukraine loses definitively and the Russians manage to advance, then the entire West will lose."
On Negotiations Without Preliminary Conditions
"Negotiations should begin without preliminary conditions. This is a classic of any diplomacy. I think so. We need to sit down at the negotiating table and discuss everything. Including Crimea, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, and Luhansk. Everything must be discussed there. But at the negotiating table," the President said.
"Of course, Russia will never agree to, as you say, return Crimea. This will not happen. I still doubt that it is possible to agree on anything here – in the east. But Russia is ready to talk on any topic," the Belarusian leader stressed.
He is convinced that only at the negotiating table can solutions to the situation be found, and this must be done with the participation of all involved parties and the powers that be. Belarus must also become a participant in the negotiation process. "Our interests are there, and our position must be heard," said Alexander Lukashenko.
On contacts with the Ukrainian side
The Head of State said that even in the current situation, contacts between Belarus and the Ukrainian side continue. "The last time was a few months ago. After these negotiations were conducted on behalf of the Main Intelligence Directorate (Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. - Editorial note of BELTA). The topics were Belarus's involvement in the war in the future, whether Belarus would fight or not on Russia's side from the north. And many other issues," said the President.
He also noted that the Ukrainian side has recently been concerned about the potential use of nuclear weapons and the deployment of the Wagner PMC in Belarus. According to the Head of State, there are still proposals to continue the dialogue. However, the Ukrainian side suggests meeting in Turkey or the UAE. Belarus does not understand the logic of these proposals.
On the achievement of the SMO goals and the future Ukraine
"I dare to express my position. The goals of the SMO have been achieved to date. Ukraine will never behave as aggressively towards Russia after the end of this war as it did before the war. Ukraine will be different. Firstly, there will be more cautious, intelligent, cunning, if you like, people in power. Competent people. Who will understand that neighbors are from God, and relations must be built with them," said the President.
"And future Ukraine will not dance to the tune of the Americans. I am absolutely convinced that Putin thinks so too. I think he understands this process that way. This is a great lesson not only for Ukraine - what is happening - but also for Russia. And for us, for the whole world. This is a great lesson. And we are learning lessons from it. Including Russia," emphasized the Belarusian leader.
On Ukraine's first step towards recovery
Ukraine's first step towards the country's recovery should be a step towards peace, the President of Belarus is convinced. "One must move towards peace. Yes, one can fight for these territories. I am not saying that they should be abandoned and so on. But a different method must be chosen: by fighting for these territories, you will lose these ones," noted Alexander Lukashenko.
The President is convinced that Ukraine will definitely recover: "A very rich country, with incredibly hardworking people. I often reproach some of my own people: go and learn from the Ukrainians. Rich traditions. All this needs to be restored bit by bit today. Much needs to be done, but we must start. And Ukraine will be Ukraine, it cannot be impoverished on such land, but the first steps must be taken. And the first step is to stop the war."
PUTIN - WHAT HE IS LIKE NOW, WHAT HE WORRIES ABOUT, AND WHAT HE THINKS ABOUT THE SITUATION
A significant part of the interview was dedicated to the contacts of the President of Belarus with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. As is known, the leaders of the countries communicate regularly, including informally - in a friendly manner. Therefore, who better than Alexander Lukashenko to ask for some details about the Russian leader, even of a personal nature. The Head of State answered these questions with utmost frankness, even sharing some insights.
ON THE FORMAT OF COMMUNICATION WITH PUTIN
Alexander Lukashenko said that during their discussions, when addressing a particular issue, the heads of state express different points of view. "It's not like some try to portray it in the West, the so-called oppositionists, that Lukashenko 'lay down under Putin', does what he says. Listen, those who know me perfectly understand that this is impossible," he said.
ON PUTIN'S "NEW" CHARACTER
Diana Panchenko said that in Ukraine, the narrative is actively being spread that after the events with the Wagner PMC, the power in Russia is weak, that "Putin is no longer the same."
"Putin is absolutely not the same. This is Putin squared. The recent times have taught everyone a lot, including Putin. He is no longer the same person, he is an even wiser and more cunning person, just so you know. And if anyone thinks that 'ah, here's Prigozhin's mutiny, Putin is weakened' - that's complete nonsense," said Alexander Lukashenko.
ON AN INSIGHT FROM A RECENT MEETING WITH PUTIN
"We had a last conversation. We touched upon the situation again. And somehow, in the heat of the moment, we sat together for a long time (the last time we met him was in St. Petersburg, then Valaam, and so on), he sits and says: 'It's bad that we clashed - two peoples. And you (Belarus. - Ed. BELTA) are involved. Well, Slavs!' And he says thoughtfully (I'm revealing information): 'No one thought of subjugating, enslaving, depriving Ukraine of independence. We didn't need that. But we had to behave appropriately and not create problems for ourselves'," Alexander Lukashenko said.
"Listen, I have nothing to object to him. Although we usually argue, we object to each other. What is there to object to? On the contrary, I supported him," the President stated.
On "Imperial Ambitions" and Fake News about Putin
The journalist asked what Alexander Lukashenko thinks about the thesis of Vladimir Putin's imperial ambitions, which is also being promoted in Ukraine, and the claims that he has allegedly gone mad.
"No. I can tell you with one hundred percent certainty that Putin has not gone mad. As for some kind of imperial aspirations, I have not observed that. Russia is a huge empire, what can you say? Of course, this leaves its mark on a person's character. It's all talk, fake news, fabrications that Putin is 'pushing'. Especially now," Alexander Lukashenko replied.
The President noted that his Russian counterpart is, of course, concerned about the ongoing events, but as an absolutely adequate and experienced person, he analyzes, tries to look ahead, and calculates. He will not do anything rashly.
On Putin's Request to "Cover" if "God Forbid Something Happens"
Alexander Lukashenko assured that he did not discuss the possibility of such a development of events with Russian President Vladimir Putin before the start of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine. Nevertheless, a few days before February 24, 2022, the Russian leader voiced a request to his ally.
"We met with him a few days before that at his suburban residence and discussed the situation that had developed," Alexander Lukashenko said. "He told me verbatim (this is the first time I'm telling you this too): 'Listen, Sasha, you know, the situation is such that if, God forbid, something happens, well, we are allies...' I said: 'What could happen?' - 'Well, anything can happen. Please cover me.'"
The head of the Belarusian state recalled his statement that "we will not allow Russians to be shot in the back." This was precisely related to Putin's request. "He was probably afraid of a stab in the back from the West," Alexander Lukashenko clarified.
On Future Presidential Elections in Russia
The President expressed the opinion that Vladimir Putin is not currently thinking about finding a successor to continue Russia's development path. "It's a big country, there are many other problems that need to be solved," Alexander Lukashenko explained.
"I think the next President in Russia will be Putin. Elections are in six months. Putin has no rivals in Russia right now," said the head of state.
NOT CUT OUT FOR THE JOB. WHAT LUKASHENKO THINKS OF ZELENSKY AND WHETHER HE ALONE IS TO BLAME FOR UKRAINE'S WOES
On Zelensky's Presidency and the Roots of Discord in Ukraine
Alexander Lukashenko believes that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has not coped with the burden of responsibility and the tasks of the head of state, but he is not solely to blame for the current situation.
"I often criticise Volodya Zelensky. His inexperience, this kind of expressiveness, his character. You know what he always did. It played its part. But the troubles began back with Leonid Danilovych (the second President of Ukraine, Leonid Kuchma. - BELTA's note). When there was no clear course: going this way and that, doing this and that," said the head of state.
"That's where it all started. Kuchma, then Yushchenko, then Yanukovych… It all accumulated. And it fell upon the inexperienced, absolutely non-politician, a person alien to this policy, Volodymyr Zelensky," said the President of Belarus. "The cap doesn't fit the head! So it's not just Zelensky who should be blamed."
On Those Responsible and Russia's Role
"Of course. Russia is responsible for everything. Including the collapse of the Soviet Union, when there was infighting at a personal level too. Now they say: 'Well, the Soviet Union would have collapsed anyway. And it's good that it fell apart like this, there was little bloodshed.' But how much blood has been shed now! These wars have swept across the entire perimeter. It is still unknown how it will end," noted Alexander Lukashenko.
"Therefore, Russia was the main state that glued, held, and answered – the successor to the Soviet Union. Of course, Russia is also to blame. We are all to blame. Russia, and Belarus, and Ukraine, and so on and so forth," emphasised the Belarusian leader.
On Zelensky's Chances in the Ukrainian Elections
"Many people are starting to really assess Zelensky. That's why he's flustered. To call elections (when they are due in a year or two) or, using martial law, to postpone them. So it's very ambiguous. And it's not a foregone conclusion that Zelensky will win these elections, even though you're churning out a 90% approval rating for him there. Complete nonsense. I'll tell you, if elections are held in the near future, someone from the military (will win. - BELTA's note). Budanov or someone else will become President. Someone from the military, but not him (not Zelensky. - BELTA's note)," Alexander Lukashenko made his prediction.
The Head of State is confident that the people in Ukraine, dazed by propaganda, will eventually understand the situation.
On the only words addressed to Zelensky
According to the journalist, Volodymyr Zelensky experienced the deterioration of relations with Alexander Lukashenko very difficultly on a human level. "He perceived it painfully, despite the fact that Ukraine imposed sanctions then, as you said, faster than the EU. Do you have any words left for him?" she asked.
"I have only one word now. I would tell him: 'Volodya, there is a war going on in your country, on your land. Everything must be done to prevent it from getting worse. Yes, what has happened has happened. Those who are guilty will have to answer for it. But today, we must stop. The negative development of events must be stopped. It will be negative, first and foremost, for Ukraine'," the Belarusian leader replied.
Is it over with Ukraine? Or are there chances to mend relations?
Alexander Lukashenko does not believe that Russia's relations with Ukraine, as well as Belarus's relations with this country, are hopelessly spoiled. The Head of State answered the journalist's question, which concerned the thesis about the ever-increasing hatred between peoples, particularly Ukrainians towards Russians.
The President noted that in this regard, he always cites the example of the atrocities committed by the fascists during the Great Patriotic War. But the wounds have healed, and the Soviet Union, as well as Ukraine and Belarus, have built relations with Germany. So it is with Ukraine, everything will normalize, but one must work towards it.
On love for Ukraine
The President noted that in previous years he had always enjoyed visiting Crimea, in Ukraine, admired the local beauty and had great respect for the people in Ukraine, including the western regions. Alexander Lukashenko himself has Ukrainian roots.
"I have always felt love for Ukraine. And I still feel the same way. No matter how they try to portray me there not as a Father, but as some kind of scoundrel. Time will pass, and people will sort everything out," the Belarusian leader said.
On the fight for truth on the battlefield
As Diana Panchenko said, today Ukrainians blame Russians for all their troubles. In her opinion, Ukraine was made a "country of hatred" long before the events of 2022. "And this was done consciously. It was state policy. How can we ensure that something similar does not happen to Belarusians?" she asked the head of state.
The President believes that it is necessary to be maximally involved in the struggle in the information field: "As much as possible, as much as we have the strength, we are resisting in this battlefield. And you know, I wouldn't say we are winners, but we are not losing yet, because, perhaps, truth always prevails."
"It is difficult in this information field, but we must fight. Otherwise, you will fight like Russia is fighting with Ukraine. Therefore, we are trying, resisting, doing everything possible," the head of state added. "The tactic is to reach every person, to get through to them."
THERE IS SOMETHING ELSE APART FROM NUCLEAR WEAPONS. HOW BELARUS IS READY TO DEFEND ITSELF
Since the very beginning of the Russian special military operation in Ukraine, the constant question to the President of Belarus has been whether the country plans to involve its army in the military actions. It seems that Alexander Lukashenko has spoken on this topic in detail more than a dozen times. But such is the fate of the country's leader - sometimes one has to repeat many times in the hope of being heard. Especially when it comes to such a sharp confrontation as in Ukraine, when the degree of distrust between the parties sometimes frankly goes off the charts.
On the conditions for Belarus's entry into the war
"If you, Ukrainians, do not cross our border, we will never participate in this war. In this hot war," Alexander Lukashenko stated. "But we will always help Russia - they are our allies."
Diana Panchenko, in turn, noted that in Ukraine one can often hear that Vladimir Putin is pushing the President of Belarus to involve the country in the war.
"Complete nonsense. Do you know why? Because it will achieve nothing. An additional 70,000 troops will achieve nothing, nothing," the head of state emphasized. "They have enough manpower and equipment."
On immediate reaction to aggression against Belarus
"If aggression against our country begins from Poland, Lithuania, or Latvia, we will respond instantly with everything we have. You understand that we have something. And the strike will be unacceptable," said Alexander Lukashenko. "We are not competing with them. Poland, Lithuania, Latvia - NATO stands behind them. We, of course, understand: the forces are incomparable. But we will deliver an unacceptable strike to them, and they will suffer unacceptable damage, harm. This is the basis of our security concept."
On readiness to use nuclear weapons
The President also stated his readiness to use nuclear weapons. At the same time, he pointed out that Belarusians are not madmen and would not want this. If aggression is not committed against the country, no one will take such a step.
"As soon as an act of aggression is committed against us, an attack on Belarus, we will not hesitate, wait, or anything else. We will use our entire arsenal of weapons for deterrence," the President warned. "Why? Belarus is not Russia, to observe, to wait for something. From Brest to Vladivostok is far, and this piece of land can be captured in a month, and nothing will remain. Therefore, we will not hesitate and observe."
The same applies to Ukraine. "Against Ukraine, if it commits aggression against us - and not only nuclear weapons. We have something besides nuclear weapons. If you cross the red lines, we will strike at the decision-making centers. This will be done without warning. Therefore, do not touch us. This concerns Ukraine the least. It concerns primarily those madmen in the West who are already preparing there," noted Alexander Lukashenko.
On World War III
According to the head of state, the events in Ukraine have served as a lesson and shown that clashes between military blocs cannot be allowed.
"No one will survive (in case of a global collision. - BELTA note): Russia is the first country in terms of nuclear warhead stockpiles, the United States of America has about the same. Everyone will be involved, it will be hot. Therefore, no one wants to die, everyone wants to live at least as we live, and hope for the best. Even now, I don't see any justification for this war being possible," the President stated.
WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT FOR LUKASHENKO NOW AND WHETHER HE INTENDS TO RUN FOR ELECTION
Part of the interview questions also concerned the domestic political situation in Belarus. After the adoption of the updated Constitution with an important role for the All-Belarusian People's Assembly, all attention is focused on the upcoming electoral campaign next year. And the next presidential elections are not far off. Considering the personality of Alexander Lukashenko, his authority, and his involvement in many international agenda issues, the question is not idle - who will be at the helm of Belarus in the future and does the President intend to remain in the captain's seat.
ON FUTURE PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS IN BELARUS
"I haven't made any decisions, honestly. Maybe this is some kind of careless attitude towards it, but I have so many problems that I have to solve. When the time comes to make a decision, I will. But now we must endure, we must withstand. We must not get into any trouble, in plain language. We must lead our people across this very thin, fragile ice so as not to fall through. This is the main thing for me now. Both my future and the future of the future government depend on this. That's why I'm focused on this. Honestly, I haven't thought about it, and I haven't even discussed this topic in my very, very close family circle, with my children. There's no time for that now," said Alexander Lukashenko.
Elections to the parliament and to the All-Belarusian People's Assembly are ahead in the country. The President stated that he would do everything possible to help Belarusians determine their future. "I will persuade, I will explain. And our people see what could happen, that we could lose this little island where it is quiet, peaceful, and one can live," he said.
ON A YACHT IN MONACO AND HAPPINESS IN BELARUS
"Have you never had a thought over these years: 'Could one be on a yacht somewhere in Monaco right now?'" the journalist asked.
"It never was. I'm not that kind of person at all. A yacht, heat, sun – that's not for me. If you go to the mountains in winter, there's no better place than Sochi. We have a state-run base there, a hotel. I don't need anything else," Alexander Lukashenko replied. "I hate money because I grew up in a poor family and we always lacked money. I'm a different person by nature, I can find my happiness at home, within Belarus."
WORKING ON MISTAKES. Why the education system received a "fail" from Lukashenko before September 1
On August 18, the President convened a meeting on the readiness of the education system for the new academic year. "As you know, tomorrow is the start of school, figuratively speaking. Hence the topic of our conversation today – the readiness of educational institutions to receive students," the Head of State noted.
The country has entered the final stage of preparation for the new academic year. School markets have opened, educational institutions are receiving readiness certificates, they are being equipped with transport for students, dormitories and sports grounds are being repaired, and material assistance is being provided to large and low-income families. "This is how it should be. Today we will see if this is really the case. And this is done so that our children have everything they need for their studies and they meet Knowledge Day in good spirits," the President noted.
The Head of State was primarily interested not in general figures, such as the percentage of school readiness and other indicators, but in a wide range of problematic issues concerning the sphere of education. That is why the traditional report from the Minister and the relevant Deputy Prime Minister, initially proposed to the President, was expanded into a meeting. Heads of the Prosecutor General's Office and the State Control Committee were specially invited to the event to hear the assessments of the supervisory bodies.
As a result, the meeting was held in a highly critical tone. Alexander Lukashenko essentially did not accept the reports from either the Minister or the Deputy Prime Minister. This is not to say that everything is bad in the domestic education system. On the contrary, systematic work is being carried out in a number of areas, and everyone acknowledges this, but even isolated shortcomings and omissions in this sphere are unacceptable to the President. Not to mention the problematic issues that are systemic in nature.
It has become known that the Head of State has instructed to recall the Prime Minister from vacation: in a week, a broad meeting is to be held under the leadership of the head of government. Alexander Lukashenko has instructed the supervisory bodies to report the information in more detail there in order to conduct a detailed analysis with the development of an action plan on how to promptly eliminate all shortcomings. And already at the beginning of September, a new report will be submitted to the President.
The entire process of preparing educational institutions and the education system as a whole for the new academic year has been entrusted to the Administration of the President for strict control: with visits to schools and other educational institutions to assess the real situation on the ground.
On the Admission Campaign
According to the information received by the President, the admission campaign in the new format is proceeding constructively. Alexander Lukashenko asked Deputy Prime Minister Igor Petrishenko to report on this in more detail: "What has been achieved, where have we failed? Perhaps you already have a vision of how we will further improve the system of admission to universities?"
"As we agreed, this year we must put an end to all sorts of bacchanalia regarding the organization of the admission campaign," the Belarusian leader emphasized.
On Road and Fire Safety
Among the problematic issues pointed out by Prosecutor General Andrei Shved are safety issues, including fire safety. Not all educational institutions have fully complied with this issue. There are also claims regarding the work on preventing road traffic accidents.
"In a number of cases, we have identified the unpreparedness or incomplete preparedness of schools for the new academic year in terms of measures for the road safety of children in the surrounding areas. In some cases, we found that fire exits were blocked with junk, fire extinguishers and other fire safety equipment were out of order. Children must be in safe conditions," Andrei Shved noted. "In addition, we have proposed measures to strengthen the protection of children's rights from violent acts."
The Prosecutor General's Office also paid special attention to the compliance of minors with the law. There are also many issues here that need to be worked on.
On Support for Orphans
The issue of providing for orphaned children was approached with considerable criticality at the meeting. This is the most vulnerable category of children, requiring increased attention, especially since the state has all the necessary resources for this, as the Prosecutor General's Office is confident. Incidentally, today 88% of orphaned children live in family-type homes, with the remainder in boarding schools. The President's task is to reach every child, including those in remote areas.
The Prosecutor General's Office proposes to review the legislative requirements and establish additional support for this category of students. "For example, for medical reasons. If a child needs glasses, the state should also provide for this," emphasized Andrei Shved. "Because they need to be protected, and only the state can protect them."
On Textbooks and the Monitoring Group
Another problematic area is textbooks. Despite years of attention to this issue and the work carried out by the Ministry of Education, problems persist. As reported by the Chairman of the State Control Committee, Vasily Gerasimov, a veritable flood of calls with complaints on this matter was received during a recent direct line. "From the perspective of simplicity and the adequacy of the information provided. The Head of State has instructed to review all textbooks once again and to reach some conclusions," noted the head of the State Control Committee.
At the meeting, specific examples of textbook assignments were even discussed, with quotes read aloud. Alexander Lukashenko instructed to establish a monitoring group specifically on the topic of textbooks, under the auspices of the Prosecutor General's Office and the State Control Committee. The group will include scientists, specialists, and philologists.
As reported by the Minister of Education, the department has conducted a complete revision of educational materials. A number of new titles for general secondary education have been published in recent years, and five textbooks required substantial revision. Two such materials have already been reissued this year: Geography for the 7th grade and Biology for the 8th grade. Three educational materials – Belarusian History for the 9th and 10th grades and Geography for the 8th grade – will be published in the current academic year and will also be supplied to schools.
On School Fairs and Price Control
Vasily Gerasimov also spoke about negative aspects in the operation of school fairs, where some private vendors inflate prices for goods by more than double. Unfortunately, such cases are not isolated. However, the situation is being monitored, and appropriate measures are being taken against unscrupulous traders.
"These facts will be strictly suppressed, as has been done so far," warned the Chairman of the State Control Committee. "Prices are set, and no one has the right to inflate them. The last case involved an inflation of 2.6 times. Naturally, we suppress such facts and prohibit trade. And this will be done everywhere."
On School Transport and School Load
Alexander Lukashenko asked the Minister of Education, Andrei Ivants, how this issue is being resolved in the regions and in Minsk. He noted that the enrollment in Minsk schools is uneven: institutions in new microdistricts are overcrowded, while those in the center are underloaded. "If we transport children from the Minsk region to Minsk, we should proceed not from where the school is closer, but from where they are underloaded," the President said.
The Head of State emphasized the need to balance the situation with school enrollment and to approach the issue of their construction thoughtfully, considering the availability of places in other institutions, especially in large cities. "It is better to transfer funds to salaries, and to staff these schools wisely," he demanded.
Vasily Gerasimov confirmed that there are a number of shortcomings in this matter. "There are certainly some developments. However, not all measures have been taken yet, and we have outlined ways to resolve this issue," he noted.
On School Meals and the Moral Aspect
Alexander Lukashenko paid special attention to school meals, also highlighting the moral aspect of this issue. "This is very important. It is abnormal when you can keep a pig farm next to every school to feed piglets with food waste. This is, if you like, also a moral problem – it has become fashionable in our society to throw away food," he noted.
Much was said at the meeting regarding the organization of school meals and cases of theft. The Minister of Education, Andrei Ivants, recalled that a pilot project was recently carried out in Belarus with the approbation of new food preparation technologies and principles of school meal organization. "More than 350 new technological dishes have been developed, and the material and technical base of the catering units is undergoing a significant update," he added.
Experiments and innovations in this area are all well and good, the President noted. But the Head of State demands that basic order be established first and foremost. According to him, this issue should be resolved once and for all, so that it is not revisited.
PROGRESSIVE FORCES. What Lukashenko called on people of goodwill to unite against
On August 18, the President of Belarus sent greetings to the participants of the II International Anti-Fascist Congress, which took place in Minsk.
"The time has come when all people of goodwill must unite to form a united front against the instigators of a new world war, who have once again raised the banners of fascism and Nazism," the head of state noted. "Before our very eyes, the United States of America and its satellites, in an attempt to preserve global hegemony and slow down the development of countries they consider their competitors, are destroying the system of global security, replicating color revolutions and armed conflicts on all continents, grossly interfering in the affairs of independent states. They are rewriting the history of World War II, and at the level of European structures, resolutions and decrees are being adopted that justify Nazi war criminals and shift the blame for unleashing this war, which became the bloodiest slaughter in human history, onto the USSR."
Alexander Lukashenko also emphasized: "We see the fruits of this policy today in Ukraine, where a harsh, inhumane, pro-fascist regime has been established, which has unleashed a civil war in the country and is ready to fight for the interests of the USA to the last Ukrainian. Our people, who lost every third person during the Great Patriotic War, know well what war is, therefore we always advocate for peace, equality and dialogue between peoples. And today, all Belarusians, together with the participants of the Second Anti-Fascist Congress, resolutely say: 'No to war! No to fascism and neo-colonialism!'"