Center for Belarus and Regional Studies at the European Humanities University, Bimonthly Review no. 12. April-May, Belarus Network for Neighborhood Policy, 2024
In this bimonthly review read how the Russian authorities are using Aliaksandar Lukashenka to propose a return to the Istanbul Agreements of 2022 as a basis for peace negotiations with Ukraine. Lukashenka’s involvement allows Russia to avoid appearing weak by making direct concessions. Meanwhile, Belarus is becoming increasingly militarized and repressive, with new laws tightening military mobilization and harsh measures against dissent. The Belarusian regime is also focusing on internal enemies and employing extensive censorship and surveillance to maintain control.