Belarusian Leader Lukashenko Resurfaces After Weeklong Absence Spurs Health Concerns
- Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has not been seen in public since last week, leading to speculation about his health.
- A photo published Monday by Belarusian state media shows Lukashenko with his left hand bandaged while visiting a military command center.
- Lukashenko's absence from public ceremonies over the weekend intensified rumors that he was seriously ill or incapacitated.
- The Belarusian opposition has urged supporters to prepare for a potential transfer of power amid the uncertainty.
- Lukashenko, an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has ruled Belarus for nearly three decades and has been criticized for authoritarian policies and human rights abuses.