The Belarusian head of state, Alexander Lukashenko, who is under pressure in his home country, will hold talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Russia on Monday. It is a „working visit,“ Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists today. It is Lukashenko’s first visit to Russia since the mass protests against the authoritarian head of state began.
Place of meeting unclear
Where Lukashenko and Putin will meet is still unclear, said Peskov. A joint press conference between the two heads of state is not planned.
Lukashenko has been facing increasing pressure since the controversial presidential election on August 9th. Tens of thousands of Belarusians have been taking to the streets for weeks against the president, who has ruled for 26 years, accusing him of election fraud and calling for new elections.
Putin had promised Lukashenko military support last week if the situation worsened. Russia called on NATO not to interfere in the affairs of the neighboring country.
