BELPOL representative Matvei Kupreichyk visited Paris, where he took part in the third meeting of the Alliance for a Democratic Belarus. In his speech he outlined the key threats posed by Lukashenka's regime, and emphasized the need to maintain systemic international pressure on the illegitimate authorities in Minsk.
1. Lukashenko's regime as a factor of destabilization of the region
Kupreichyk recalled that Lukashenka's regime deliberately provoked the migration crisis, using it as a tool to pressure the EU. This step was the dictator's reaction to the support that Europe gave to Belarusan civil society after the 2020 protests.
Belarus has actually turned into a springboard for Russian aggression against Ukraine: it has provided territory and infrastructure for the deployment of Russian troops, logistical support and carrying out strikes. According to BELPOL, filtration camps for Ukrainian citizens have been set up on the territory of the country with Lukashenka's consent, and children taken from the occupied territories are subjected to militarization and ideological treatment. In addition, Belarus continues to provide its airspace for Russian drones used in attacks on Ukrainian cities.
2. Militarization and dependence on russia
The BELPOL representative noted that Minsk not only provides comprehensive support to Russia, but also actively participates in the production of arms and ammunition.
From the end of 2024, Belarus will not just accept Russian arms, but will accumulate them on its territory, modernizing its military infrastructure in close cooperation with the Russian military.
Lukashenko's regime becomes an ally of the war criminal and an accomplice in the preparation for a possible new war in Europe.
3. Political rhetoric and reality
Against the background of these processes, there are periodic calls for easing or lifting sanctions against Minsk. However, as Kupreychyk emphasized, such steps would be a strategic mistake.
Lifting the sanctions will only strengthen Belarus' militarized economy and give Lukashenko the resources to increase production of military equipment.
At the same time, according to BELPOL, economic indicators show a systemic weakening of the regime: industry suffers from a shortage of technology and components, and Russia is unable to provide Minsk with financial support. The regime is forced to seek support from China - on terms that are extremely unfavorable for Belarus.
Meanwhile, the authorities are strengthening ideological and military control: elements of military training are being introduced in schools from the age of 10, and legislation is gradually being adapted to "wartime" conditions.
4. International pressure and paths to democratization
Kupreichik noted that the international community has all the necessary tools to put pressure on Lukashenko's regime and support democratic reforms. Among them:
Preservation and expansion of sanctions. BELPOL is preparing an analytical report demonstrating the real effectiveness of sanctions pressure despite the propaganda claims of the illegitimate authorities in Minsk.
Restriction of commodity transit through Belarus. The example of Poland proved the effectiveness of such measures.
Support for the "Passport of New Belarus" project, which removes the dictator's control over citizens outside the country.
Inclusion of democratic forces of Belarus in the negotiation processes on Ukraine, as Lukashenko has lost his legitimacy and has no right to represent the Belarusian people.
Paris consultations and international response
During the visit, Matvei Kupreychyk also held a closed briefing at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where representatives of the French state structures were present.
The sides discussed the militarization of Belarus, ongoing repressions, Minsk's participation in the war against Ukraine, and strengthening of sanctions control. Special attention was paid to preventing the circumvention of sanctions and supporting civil society.
According to BELPOL, today it is more important than ever to maintain the unity of the international community and the firmness of the position towards Belarus.
Long Live Belarus!
