Ukrainian President Reveals Details of Call with Belarus Leader
In a recent interview with American podcast host Lex Friedman, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shared new insights into a conversation he had with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko at the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion. The exchange shed light on Lukashenko’s role in the conflict and his attempts to distance himself from responsibility.
Zelensky revealed that in the early stages of the war, Lukashenko had apologized to him for the shelling carried out from Belarusian territory. However, the Ukrainian leader also disclosed that Lukashenko had attempted to shift blame onto Russian President Vladimir Putin, reportedly saying, "Well, believe me, Volodya, it’s not me. I don’t control it, it’s just rockets, it’s Putin. I told him not to do it. It was done without me."
In response to Zelensky’s assertion that Lukashenko is as much of a war criminal as Putin, the Belarusian leader suggested that Ukraine should target the Mozirsky Oil Refinery as a response.
Belarus’ Role in the War
As a reminder, Lukashenko initially allowed Russia to use Belarusian territory as a staging ground for the invasion. Russian forces launched attacks and fired missiles from Belarus, and some Russian soldiers also received treatment there.
Moreover, Lukashenko has been complicit in the deportation of Ukrainian children. He admitted to assisting Putin in this matter, demonstrating his involvement in the humanitarian crisis.
Related News
- [Link to related news article 1]
- [Link to related news article 2]
