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The Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko (68) rushed to Moscow especially for the Soviet “Victory Day”. If Lukashenko usually inspects the May 9 parade at his home in Minsk, Lukashenko should probably show up next to Russia’s wartime president Vladimir Putin (70). But Lukashenko was quick to give his powerful ally the cold shoulder – and he tried to hide an injury in the process.
Lukashenko hastily left Moscow. Due to a rare violation of protocol, he missed Putin’s state banquet in the Kremlin, which was also attended by other state guests from former Soviet republics.
Lukashenko had previously spoken briefly with Putin. But the Belarusian leader seemed tired and unsteady on his feet, reports “Reuters”. He also wore a bandage on his right hand, which he tried to hide under the sleeve of his jacket. In the end, Putin’s most important ally was not at the table.
Moscow and Minsk are silent
Lukashenko’s appearance sparked speculation about his health on the Internet. He couldn’t even walk a few steps. While Putin and his guests walked the 300 meters from Red Square to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Lukashenko let himself drive for the short distance.
Neither Moscow nor Minsk commented on Lukashenko’s striking behavior. Belarusian political scientist Dmitry Bolkunets, 40, wrote on Telegram that an ambulance followed Lukashenko’s convoy to the airport as he left Moscow almost headlong.
Broken brotherly love?
After his abrupt departure from the Russian capital, Lukashenko laid a wreath in Minsk later Tuesday. He wore civilian clothes, not the usual military uniform, and did not speak.
Last February, Russia used Belarus as a starting point for its invasion of neighboring Ukraine. Since then, the two countries have held a series of joint military maneuvers on Belarusian soil.
However, Lukashenko has not sent troops, insisting that his country is not a war party alongside Putin’s “military operation”.
Source: Blick
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
