Interview with Russian journalists on sidelines of CIS summit in Tajikistan

On the sidelines of the CIS summit in Tajikistan, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko talked to Russian journalists.

The Belarusian leader urged calm when asked about the possibility of these missiles being sent to Ukraine, warning that such a step could significantly escalate the conflict and advised against a literal interpretation of such reports.

“I think we need to calm down. I have already said that our friend Donald [U.S. President Donald Trump] has a signature tactic for dealing with the most pressing issues,” the head of state noted. “As I understand it, at first he adopts a hard line putting pressure on governments and individuals, and after that he eases up a bit and pulls back. So we should not just take these reports bluntly, as if they [missiles] will be sent tomorrow.”

Aleksandr Lukashenko also remarked on the diversity of the world, including in terms of weaponry: “There is an antidote for every poison. I think the President of the United States understands this better than anyone. And he understands the need to avoid a scenario that would require using an antidote to a serious poison.”

The Belarusian leader believes that plans to supply these missiles to Ukraine will never materialize. “I say this because I know what kind of person he [Donald Trump] is. Therefore, everything will be fine,” the President said.

When asked when the Ukrainian leadership would finally realize that negotiations are preferable to war, Aleksandr Lukashenko shifted focus, stating that while he once blamed European leaders, Vladimir Zelensky’s own stance must now be the primary concern.

“We have received considerable information in recent days indicating that this is not about the U.S., which is keen to advance the peace process, nor about Russia, which is ready to move forward, nor about the European leaders, but about Vladimir Zelensky. I think he will come to understand this. In fact, I believe he already does,” the Belarusian leader stated.

He also analyzed Zelensky’s predicament, noting: “From his perspective, taking such steps abruptly would redefine his entire identity. My sense is that Vladimir Aleksandrovich is positioning himself to yield to powerful outside pressure, at which point certain decisions will follow.”

Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized the urgency of the situation, warning that delay could lead to catastrophic consequences. “It is necessary to act now, because Russia is advancing on the front lines. I know what I am saying, because I witness it every day. And this could lead to the disappearance of Ukraine as a state,” he remarked.

He further cautioned that Ukraine’s western neighbors have their own strategic interests in the conflict. “Look at Ukraine’s deranged neighbors—first and foremost, those in the West. Certain powers and states already see themselves in Western Ukraine. They are ready to snatch away part of Ukraine, as it was before the Great Patriotic War. You understand what we are talking about. Therefore, the situation is very grave there,” the President said.

Concluding his remarks, Aleksandr Lukashenko issued a direct appeal: “I hope that the President of Ukraine will heed my proposals and finally realize that Ukraine’s genuine partners are its Slavic neighbors. Therefore, we must come to the negotiating table and find a solution.”