Lukashenko, 'we help Russians but don't forget Ukrainians'

Belarus, according to its president and strongman, Aleksandar Lukashenko, a close Putin ally, "helps Russian brothers" but "does not forget Ukrainians." "Not only do we help and support our Russian brothers, and I have never hidden this, as my visit yesterday to Russian soldiers shows. But we also do not forget the Ukrainians," the Belarusian dictator said, quoted by Tass, as he visited the St.

Elizabeth convent in Minsk today on the Orthodox Christmas.

"About 10 thousand people who fled the war found permanent housing and refuge in our country in the past year," he added, without specifying which nationality.

According to the Interfax news agency, Lukashenko also evoked openness towards Belarusian dissidents who have fled abroad if they "repent." "It is time to take measures that will come to the aid of opposition activists who have left the country" and have thus "made mistakes." "In their regard - Lukashenko said - the authorities will do it in our way, as Orthodox Christians. I am sure - he added, according to Interfax - some people are aware that they made mistakes among those who fled. And they should not be humiliated."

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