Lukashenko claims NATO seeks alliance in absurd peace proposal

The war in Ukraine has been ongoing for two and a half years. During this time, the topic of Belarus's involvement in the conflict has not quietened down even for a moment. However, apart from allowing Russians to operate on its territory, Belarus has refrained from sending its own troops into Ukrainian lands since the beginning.

Despite this, information about alleged provocations aiming to force Belarusians into full participation in the armed actions systematically appears in the media. These speculations, however, always end up as mere threats and the deployment of additional Belarusian military units to the border.

An example is the recent "Ukrainian provocation" with drones, which Alexander Lukashenko himself discussed. However, the Belarusian dictator seems to be changing his stance, mentioning alleged, persistent NATO positions and asking him to join the fight against Russia. Simultaneously, Russians are urging him towards greater involvement in the conflict.

Let's fight with Ukraine against Russia, and we will bring NATO troops to the border near Smolensk. It has reached the point where today I receive offers from all sides, 99% of which we cannot accept. I want you to understand the environment and situation we are currently living in—said Alexander Lukashenko at the conference.

The words of the Belarusian dictator, although certainly rough propaganda, cannot be ruled out as having some purpose. It is no secret that there were moments when Lukashenko showed interest in the West and most likely conducted talks with them. Thus, he may now be indicating his willingness to negotiate.

However, a potential turn of Belarus towards the West is very doubtful. Its army, like many sectors of the economy, is dependent on Russia due to agreements signed before the war in Ukraine. This has been the case for decades, and Minsk cannot afford independence from Moscow today. "Batka" himself is well aware of this.