Belarus Intensifies Crackdown on Ukraine Supporters
President Lukashenko's regime arrests over 1,600 individuals for anti-war stances as political tensions rise.
- The Viasna human rights center reports that 1,671 Belarusians have been detained for supporting Ukraine, with 200 facing prison sentences up to 25 years.
- The crackdown includes allegations of torture, inhumane conditions, and forced psychiatric treatment for detainees.
- Belarus shares a border with Ukraine and has historically close ties, but President Lukashenko has aligned with Russia, allowing its military presence in Belarus.
- Ahead of a January presidential election, Lukashenko's government is conducting anti-riot drills and has intensified its repression of dissent.
- In a contrasting move, Lukashenko has pardoned 32 political prisoners, signaling a potential shift towards dialogue with Western nations.