After the elections, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko began his seventh term in office. Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony in Minsk, Lukashenko defended the exile opposition, stating that they have no future, and praised the country’s relationship with Russia.

With no serious opponent in the presidential elections held in January and criticized by the opposition as “rigged,” Lukashenko emphasized his commitment to protecting the country’s independence and stability during the ceremony. Taking the oath of allegiance to the constitution at the ceremony, Lukashenko stated, “I swear as President of the Republic of Belarus that I will faithfully serve the people of Belarus, respect and defend the rights and freedoms of individuals and citizens, adhere to and protect the Constitution of the Republic of Belarus.”

STRONG MESSAGES TO THE OPPOSITION

In harsh remarks targeted towards the Belarusian opposition in exile, Lukashenko said, “You taught us to protect what we have and appreciate its value. The people see everything. You have no support, and you never will. You have nothing to oppose our unity.” Accusing the opposition of promoting sanctions against the country, Lukashenko added, “Thanks to those of you who sell the homeland for grants, or rather in spite of you, we are getting stronger. While you endanger our peace, we are defending it. While you beg your masters for sanctions and bombs, we are securing our prosperity,” he mentioned.

“THE WORLD IS SHAKING”

Touching on global developments, Lukashenko claimed that Belarus is on the brink of a major geopolitical crisis, stating, “The world is shaking. One crisis quickly follows another. Hot spots are increasing. The tension around us is escalating. NATO forces are at our doorstep, doing their best to drag Belarus into conflicts.” However, Lukashenko reassured that Belarus is not alone, mentioning, “Fortunately, we have many friends and allies. Brotherly Russia, great China, the Commonwealth of Independent States, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, our partners in organizations like BRICS… In fact, countries that make up the global majority today,” indicating that the country receives international support.