Previously, authorities said Protasevich is an extremist who has facilitated violence. They have maintained that televised confessions by members of the opposition were made voluntarily.

Jailed Belarus journalist makes another public appearance

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday said that the country had defeated a foreign "blitzkrieg" after massive protests and rallies that were held across the country to push the strongman out of power after decades-long rule.&nbsp;

"The blitzkrieg did not succeed, we held on to our country," Lukashenko in a speech at the opening of the All-Belarusian People's Assembly in Minsk said.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Lukashenko is presiding the People's Assembly which he announced late last year to push for reforms in the wake of huge protests.&nbsp;

Nearly 3,000 delegates that are hand-picked by the government are participating in the assembly, a traditional meeting from the Soviet era.

For the last six months, there has been a brutal crackdown from Belarusian government on dissenters that demand his exit after the controversial presidential election whos credibility is questioned internationally.&nbsp;

He has not hinted on the possible reforms and insisted he will not leave "presidency".

"I will not suddenly give up the presidency," Lukashenko recently said.&nbsp;

"I have nothing other than Belarus. I cling to it and I hold on to it". 
&nbsp;

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday said that the country had defeated a foreign "blitzkrieg" after massive protests and rallies that were held across the country to push the strongman out of power after decades-long rule.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday said that the country had defeated a foreign "blitzkrieg" after massive protests and rallies that were held across the country to push the strongman out of power after decades-long rule. "The blitzkrieg did not succeed, we held on to our country," Lukashenko in a speech at the opening of the All-Belarusian People's Assembly in Minsk said. Watch | Lukashenko is presiding the People's Assembly which he announced late last year to push for reforms in the wake of huge protests. Nearly 3,000 delegates that are hand-picked by the government are participating in the assembly, a traditional meeting from the Soviet era. For the last six months, there has been a brutal crackdown from Belarusian government on dissenters that demand his exit after the controversial presidential election whos credibility is questioned internationally. He has not hinted on the possible reforms and insisted he will not leave "presidency". "I will not suddenly give up the presidency," Lukashenko recently said. "I have nothing other than Belarus. I cling to it and I hold on to it".

Foreign 'blitzkrieg' on Belarus failed: Alexander Lukashenko

Belarus, a country of 9.5 million that Russia sees as a security buffer against NATO, has been rocked by mass protests since an Aug. 9 presidential election which Lukashenko said he won.

Thousands of anti-Lukashenko protesters march in Belarus

The Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko announced on Friday that he would be willing to step down from his position of power if a new constitution is adopted.

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko to resign if new constitution is adopted

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused the&nbsp;West of meddling&nbsp;in Belarus and&nbsp;pledged&nbsp;support to embattled&nbsp;President Lukashenko.

It comes as Lavrov&nbsp;met strongman leader Lukashenko who has faced months of protests over his disputed re-election.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/belarus-over-900-protestors-arrested-by-police-during-anti-government-protest-343511/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Lavrov sent regards from President Vladimir Putin who bestowed a $1.5 billion loan on&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;earlier in September in a gesture of support for Lukashenko.&nbsp;Russia is a traditional ally of&nbsp;Belarus.

Sergei Lavrov held talks with Lukashenko and other top officials in the capital Minsk, in the latest show of Russia's support for authorities in its ex-Soviet neighbour.

Thousands of protesters demanding Lukashenko's resignation have taken to the streets of Minsk every weekend since an August 9 election that saw the 66-year-old claim a sixth term in office.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belaruss-lukashenko-and-son-put-on-sanctions-list-of-european-union-341210">Belarus's Lukashenko and son put on sanctions list of European Union</a>

Protesters believe political novice Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, 38, who took her jailed husband's place in the presidential race, was the true winner.

Moscow has continued to back Lukashenko since the protests erupted, with several meetings between senior officials from both sides in recent months.

Speaking at a press conference with his Belarusian counterpart Vladimir Makei, Lavrov accused the United States and several European countries of "gross interference" in the domestic affairs of Belarus.

"The wise Belarusian people are able to sort themselves out without any outside prompting and intrusive offers of unsolicited mediation," Lavrov said.

Lukashenko has accused Western countries of orchestrating the demonstrations and conspiring to have him removed after 26 years in power.&nbsp;

Lavrov said the West is "using dirty methods of so-called colour revolutions, including manipulating public opinion, supporting forces that are openly anti-government and promoting their radicalisation".

Several Western leaders have refused to recognise the results of the election and voiced support for Tikhanovskaya, who fled to EU member Lithuania shortly after the vote.&nbsp;

The European Union has slapped sanctions on Lukashenko and a number of his allies citing election rigging and a violent police crackdown on demonstrators.&nbsp;

Belarus police detained thousands of protesters in the first days of the demonstrations, with many reporting torture and abuse in custody.&nbsp;

They have continued to regularly arrest demonstrators and opposition figures, and several people have died during the protests.&nbsp;

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused the West of meddling in Belarus and pledged support to embattled President Lukashenko. It comes as Lavrov met strongman leader Lukashenko who has faced months of protests over his disputed re-election.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accused the West of meddling in Belarus and pledged support to embattled President Lukashenko. It comes as Lavrov met strongman leader Lukashenko who has faced months of protests over his disputed re-election. Lavrov sent regards from President Vladimir Putin who bestowed a $1.5 billion loan on Belarus earlier in September in a gesture of support for Lukashenko. Russia is a traditional ally of Belarus. Sergei Lavrov held talks with Lukashenko and other top officials in the capital Minsk, in the latest show of Russia's support for authorities in its ex-Soviet neighbour. Thousands of protesters demanding Lukashenko's resignation have taken to the streets of Minsk every weekend since an August 9 election that saw the 66-year-old claim a sixth term in office. Also read: Belarus's Lukashenko and son put on sanctions list of European Union Protesters believe political novice Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, 38, who took her jailed husband's place in the presidential race, was the true winner. Moscow has continued to back Lukashenko since the protests erupted, with several meetings between senior officials from both sides in recent months. Speaking at a press conference with his Belarusian counterpart Vladimir Makei, Lavrov accused the United States and several European countries of "gross interference" in the domestic affairs of Belarus. "The wise Belarusian people are able to sort themselves out without any outside prompting and intrusive offers of unsolicited mediation," Lavrov said. Lukashenko has accused Western countries of orchestrating the demonstrations and conspiring to have him removed after 26 years in power. Lavrov said the West is "using dirty methods of so-called colour revolutions, including manipulating public opinion, supporting forces that are openly anti-government and promoting their radicalisation". Several Western leaders have refused to recognise the results of the election and voiced support for Tikhanovskaya, who fled to EU member Lithuania shortly after the vote. The European Union has slapped sanctions on Lukashenko and a number of his allies citing election rigging and a violent police crackdown on demonstrators. Belarus police detained thousands of protesters in the first days of the demonstrations, with many reporting torture and abuse in custody. They have continued to regularly arrest demonstrators and opposition figures, and several people have died during the protests.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov accuses West of interfering in Belarus

Belarusian police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and stun grenades to disperse the crowds demonstrating against President Alexander Lukashenko.

The street rallies were re-ignited following the death of Roman Bondarenko, a 31-year old anti-government protester. He died in hospital in Minsk on Thursday following what demonstrators said was a severe beating by security forces.

Hundreds of people have been detained after they took to the streets in mass demonstrations chanting "I'm going out", the last known written words of an anti-government protester who died last week.

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Belarusian rights group Viasna said at least 328 people were detained, including journalists.

Tens of thousands have taken to the streets of cities throughout&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;every weekend since August 9 when Lukashenko claimed a sixth presidential term in elections that his critics and Western countries said were rigged.

The EU has slapped sanctions on officials in the authoritarian country for rigging the vote and waging a brutal crackdown on post-vote demonstrations that led to mass arrests and allegations of torture and abuse at the hands of the security services.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-cannot-say-no-the-reign-of-terror-that-sustains-belarus-leader-343358" hreflang="en">'You cannot say no': The reign of terror that sustains Belarus' leader</a>

Sunday's rally comes after thousands of demonstrators turned out in Minsk Friday to mourn the death of a protester who was pronounced dead one day after police arrested him.

Roman Bondarenko, 31, died in Minsk after police arrested him following a dispute in a city square that has become a regular meeting place for the opposition.

He was arrested by police on Wednesday after an altercation between residents and masked men who removed red and white ribbons, the colours of the opposition, hung in a building courtyard in Minsk.&nbsp;

Bondarenko was pronounced dead on Thursday after suffering brain damage, triggering a wave of outrage&nbsp;among the Belarusian opposition, who believe Lukashenko's security forces are ultimately responsible.

The interior ministry has denied responsibility for Bondarenko's death, saying he was killed in a scuffle with civilians.

'Devastating'&nbsp;

Exiled opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya described the former soldier Bondarenko as a "man who was killed because he wanted to live in a free country".&nbsp;

On Sunday she described the crackdown on protesters with "gas, grenades and firearms" as "devastating" and called for international support for the demonstrators.

"We ask our allies to stand up for the Belarusian people and human rights. We need a humanitarian corridor for the injured, support for the media, international investigation of crimes," she wrote on Twitter.

Lukashenko said Friday he had asked investigators to probe the incident "honestly and objectively".&nbsp;

Political crisis

Belarus&nbsp;has been mired in a political crisis for months. Tens of thousands of people have taken to the streets every week since an election in August that they say was rigged, something Lukasheko denies. They want the veteran leader, in power for 26 years, to resign.

Lukashenko, who has the firm backing of longstanding ally Russian President Vladimir Putin, has refused to stand down and instead suggests reforms to the constitution to placate the opposition.

Belarusian police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and stun grenades to disperse the crowds demonstrating against President Alexander Lukashenko. The street rallies were re-ignited following the death of Roman Bondarenko, a 31-year old anti-government protester.

Belarusian police used tear gas, rubber bullets, and stun grenades to disperse the crowds demonstrating against President Alexander Lukashenko. The street rallies were re-ignited following the death of Roman Bondarenko, a 31-year old anti-government protester. He died in hospital in Minsk on Thursday following what demonstrators said was a severe beating by security forces. Hundreds of people have been detained after they took to the streets in mass demonstrations chanting "I'm going out", the last known written words of an anti-government protester who died last week. Belarusian rights group Viasna said at least 328 people were detained, including journalists. Tens of thousands have taken to the streets of cities throughout Belarus every weekend since August 9 when Lukashenko claimed a sixth presidential term in elections that his critics and Western countries said were rigged. The EU has slapped sanctions on officials in the authoritarian country for rigging the vote and waging a brutal crackdown on post-vote demonstrations that led to mass arrests and allegations of torture and abuse at the hands of the security services. Also read| 'You cannot say no': The reign of terror that sustains Belarus' leader Sunday's rally comes after thousands of demonstrators turned out in Minsk Friday to mourn the death of a protester who was pronounced dead one day after police arrested him. Roman Bondarenko, 31, died in Minsk after police arrested him following a dispute in a city square that has become a regular meeting place for the opposition. He was arrested by police on Wednesday after an altercation between residents and masked men who removed red and white ribbons, the colours of the opposition, hung in a building courtyard in Minsk. Bondarenko was pronounced dead on Thursday after suffering brain damage, triggering a wave of outrage among the Belarusian opposition, who believe Lukashenko's security forces are ultimately responsible. The interior ministry has denied responsibility for Bondarenko's death, saying he was killed in a scuffle with civilians. 'Devastating' Exiled opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya described the former soldier Bondarenko as a "man who was killed because he wanted to live in a free country". On Sunday she described the crackdown on protesters with "gas, grenades and firearms" as "devastating" and called for international support for the demonstrators. "We ask our allies to stand up for the Belarusian people and human rights. We need a humanitarian corridor for the injured, support for the media, international investigation of crimes," she wrote on Twitter. Lukashenko said Friday he had asked investigators to probe the incident "honestly and objectively". Political crisis Belarus has been mired in a political crisis for months. Tens of thousands of people have taken to the streets every week since an election in August that they say was rigged, something Lukasheko denies. They want the veteran leader, in power for 26 years, to resign. Lukashenko, who has the firm backing of longstanding ally Russian President Vladimir Putin, has refused to stand down and instead suggests reforms to the constitution to placate the opposition.

Belarus police uses tear gas, stun grenades to disperse protesters

Bondarenko, who reportedly hit his head on the ground during the attack, was then detained and taken away in a van.

Belarus: thousands protest against death of teacher in police custody

Thousands of people carrying candles and flowers gathered in Minsk on Thursday to mourn the death of a protester who was pronounced dead the day after police arrested him.

Lining the capital's main thoroughfares, the protesters formed human chains, while dozens more laid flowers at the site where Roman Bondarenko, a 31-year-old former soldier, was arrested on Wednesday.

Witnesses say Roman Bondarenko was detained after scuffling with people in plain clothes who had come to a playground to remove red-and-white ribbons that represent the protest movement against veteran President Alexander Lukashenko.

Bondarenko died in Minsk after police arrested him following a dispute in a city square that has become a regular meeting place for the opposition.

The interior ministry denied responsibility for Bondarenko's death, saying he was killed due to a scuffle with civilians.

The death is the latest flashpoint in months of mass protests against Lukashenko following a disputed presidential election in August. The opposition says Lukashenko rigged the vote to secure a sixth successive term.

Lukashenko denies electoral fraud and, buoyed by support from traditional ally Russia, has shown little inclination to step down. A violent crackdown prompted a new round of Western sanctions on Minsk.

"Shocked by the death of Raman Bandarenka," Lithuania's Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius said on Twitter.

"Astonishing cynicism, cruelty of the regime and blunt ignorance of people's aspirations for changes."

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who stood against Lukashenko in the election and then fled into exile, called Bondarenko a hero of Belarus.

"Unfortunately, despite all the efforts of the emergency hospital doctors, the patient died," a statement by the health ministry said.

Britain expelled two Belarusian diplomats on Tuesday in response to two of its own diplomats being expelled from Belarus.

London also summoned the Belarusian ambassador to deliver a message that it believes the only way forward is for fresh elections to be held and for those responsible for violence against demonstrators to be held to account.

Thousands of people carrying candles and flowers gathered in Minsk on Thursday to mourn the death of a protester who was pronounced dead the day after police arrested him.

Thousands of people carrying candles and flowers gathered in Minsk on Thursday to mourn the death of a protester who was pronounced dead the day after police arrested him. Lining the capital's main thoroughfares, the protesters formed human chains, while dozens more laid flowers at the site where Roman Bondarenko, a 31-year-old former soldier, was arrested on Wednesday. Witnesses say Roman Bondarenko was detained after scuffling with people in plain clothes who had come to a playground to remove red-and-white ribbons that represent the protest movement against veteran President Alexander Lukashenko. Bondarenko died in Minsk after police arrested him following a dispute in a city square that has become a regular meeting place for the opposition. The interior ministry denied responsibility for Bondarenko's death, saying he was killed due to a scuffle with civilians. The death is the latest flashpoint in months of mass protests against Lukashenko following a disputed presidential election in August. The opposition says Lukashenko rigged the vote to secure a sixth successive term. Lukashenko denies electoral fraud and, buoyed by support from traditional ally Russia, has shown little inclination to step down. A violent crackdown prompted a new round of Western sanctions on Minsk. "Shocked by the death of Raman Bandarenka," Lithuania's Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius said on Twitter. "Astonishing cynicism, cruelty of the regime and blunt ignorance of people's aspirations for changes." Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who stood against Lukashenko in the election and then fled into exile, called Bondarenko a hero of Belarus. "Unfortunately, despite all the efforts of the emergency hospital doctors, the patient died," a statement by the health ministry said. Britain expelled two Belarusian diplomats on Tuesday in response to two of its own diplomats being expelled from Belarus. London also summoned the Belarusian ambassador to deliver a message that it believes the only way forward is for fresh elections to be held and for those responsible for violence against demonstrators to be held to account.

Candles and condemnation: Thousands rally in Belarus after opposition protester's death

More than 500 people were detained by the police in Belarus as protests against country's president Alexander Lukashenko continued. The opposition reached out to US President-Elect Joe Biden. The protests in Belarus have been going on for more than three months. Tens of thousands have taken to the streets of Belarus in this period. The people are protesting result of August 9 election in which Lukashenko claimed a landslide victory.

His opponents are demanding he hand power to Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, a political novice who ran for president against Lukashenko 
Several thousand protesters, many carrying the red-and-white opposition flag, joined a march in central Minsk on Sunday.

On&nbsp;Saturday, Tikhanovskaya congratulated Joe Biden and said she hoped to meet the newly elected US president.

"This was a real race of ideas, programmes and teams, unlike Belarus, where votes at elections were simply stolen, in the United States the vote of every voter was taken into account," she said.

She said she believed Biden will "soon meet with the fairly elected president of the new, free Belarus".

Democrat Biden has previously voiced support for the Belarusian opposition and promised he would expand sanctions against the regime.&nbsp; 
Lukashenko on Saturday called the US vote a "mockery of democracy" and said he doesn't expect relations with Washington to change no matter the election outcome.

Also Read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/belaruss-lukashenko-and-son-put-on-sanctions-list-of-european-union-341210">Belarus's Lukashenko and son put on sanctions list of European Union</a> 
 
On Sunday, police vans and water cannons had been deployed to the centre of the city with police sporadically detaining protesters in various locations.

Local media reported a heavy police presence, with human rights group Viasna saying that at least 395 people had been detained in the capital Minsk and other cities.

Olympic decathlete Andrei Kravchenko and the 2008 Miss Belarus pageant winner Olga Khizhinkova were among those detained, according to the Tut.by news website.

Pensioner Yelena Vasilyevich told AFP that she was taking part in the Sunday protest with her family and friends.

"I want to finally live in a free and democratic country," said Vasilyevich, 65.

From exile in Lithuania, Tikhanovskaya said protests would continue "until victory" and that the past 90 days had shown authorities they had "lost legitimacy and power".

"The regime doesn't want to give us the right to decide what will happen next to our country," she wrote on her Telegram channel on Sunday.

In October, several state universities expelled students who organised sit-in protests on campus.

"We are citizens who have a conscience and who cannot be silent if lawlessness is happening in the country," law student Tamara Babina, 20, told AFP at Sunday's protest.

EU sanctions

The European Union has slapped sanctions on Lukashenko, 66, and several of his allies, imposing a travel ban and asset freezes, for vote-rigging and police violence.

Earlier protests in Minsk were met with a brutal crackdown with police using stun grenades and rubber bullets to disperse the gatherings.&nbsp; 
Many of those detained reported brutal treatment including beatings and torture at the hands of security forces.

Authorities have also threatened to use live ammunition on protesters.&nbsp;

With Moscow-backed Lukashenko refusing to step down and the opposition unable to force his resignation, the political situation appears to have reached an impasse.

Last week, Belarus closed land borders with Lithuania, Latvia, Ukraine and Poland, and banned foreigners from entering the country via land border crossings.

Two weeks ago, the opposition announced a nationwide strike but it did not gain momentum and its effects on the country's economy appear to have been limited.

More than 500 people were detained by the police in Belarus as protests against country's president Alexander Lukashenko continued. The opposition reached out to US President-Elect Joe Biden.

More than 500 people were detained by the police in Belarus as protests against country's president Alexander Lukashenko continued. The opposition reached out to US President-Elect Joe Biden. The protests in Belarus have been going on for more than three months. Tens of thousands have taken to the streets of Belarus in this period. The people are protesting result of August 9 election in which Lukashenko claimed a landslide victory. His opponents are demanding he hand power to Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, a political novice who ran for president against Lukashenko Several thousand protesters, many carrying the red-and-white opposition flag, joined a march in central Minsk on Sunday. On Saturday, Tikhanovskaya congratulated Joe Biden and said she hoped to meet the newly elected US president. "This was a real race of ideas, programmes and teams, unlike Belarus, where votes at elections were simply stolen, in the United States the vote of every voter was taken into account," she said. She said she believed Biden will "soon meet with the fairly elected president of the new, free Belarus". Democrat Biden has previously voiced support for the Belarusian opposition and promised he would expand sanctions against the regime. Lukashenko on Saturday called the US vote a "mockery of democracy" and said he doesn't expect relations with Washington to change no matter the election outcome. Also Read | Belarus's Lukashenko and son put on sanctions list of European Union On Sunday, police vans and water cannons had been deployed to the centre of the city with police sporadically detaining protesters in various locations. Local media reported a heavy police presence, with human rights group Viasna saying that at least 395 people had been detained in the capital Minsk and other cities. Olympic decathlete Andrei Kravchenko and the 2008 Miss Belarus pageant winner Olga Khizhinkova were among those detained, according to the Tut.by news website. Pensioner Yelena Vasilyevich told AFP that she was taking part in the Sunday protest with her family and friends. "I want to finally live in a free and democratic country," said Vasilyevich, 65. From exile in Lithuania, Tikhanovskaya said protests would continue "until victory" and that the past 90 days had shown authorities they had "lost legitimacy and power". "The regime doesn't want to give us the right to decide what will happen next to our country," she wrote on her Telegram channel on Sunday. In October, several state universities expelled students who organised sit-in protests on campus. "We are citizens who have a conscience and who cannot be silent if lawlessness is happening in the country," law student Tamara Babina, 20, told AFP at Sunday's protest. EU sanctions The European Union has slapped sanctions on Lukashenko, 66, and several of his allies, imposing a travel ban and asset freezes, for vote-rigging and police violence. Earlier protests in Minsk were met with a brutal crackdown with police using stun grenades and rubber bullets to disperse the gatherings. Many of those detained reported brutal treatment including beatings and torture at the hands of security forces. Authorities have also threatened to use live ammunition on protesters. With Moscow-backed Lukashenko refusing to step down and the opposition unable to force his resignation, the political situation appears to have reached an impasse. Last week, Belarus closed land borders with Lithuania, Latvia, Ukraine and Poland, and banned foreigners from entering the country via land border crossings. Two weeks ago, the opposition announced a nationwide strike but it did not gain momentum and its effects on the country's economy appear to have been limited.

Belarus: Police detain hundreds as opposition reaches out to Biden

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko and his son were officially put on the EU sanctions blacklist Friday along with 13 other officials because of their post-election crackdown.

The formal move came after EU member states gave their assent and the decision was published in the bloc's official journal.

Lukashenko, his son Viktor and the 13 others were added to an EU list drawn up in October that already had 40 names on it, including Belarus's interior minister.

The sanctions ban them from obtaining visas for the European Union and also freeze their assets in the EU.

The decision in principle to add Lukashenko and his son was made October 12 at a meeting of EU foreign ministers because of their responsibility for the "violent repression by the state apparatus before and after the 2020 presidential elections".

The EU also held Lukashenko responsible for the exclusion of major opposition candidates in the election, "arbitrary arrests and the ill-treatment of peaceful demonstrators, as well as intimidation and violence against journalists".&nbsp;

Lukashenko's son Viktor is an acting national security advisor in Belarus.&nbsp;

Among the others targeted are Lukashenko's chief of staff, the head of the country's KGB secret service, and the leader's press officer.

The EU rejected the results of the August 9 election and has said it does not regard Lukashenko as the legitimate president.

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko and his son were officially put on the EU sanctions blacklist Friday along with 13 other officials because of their post-election crackdown.

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko and his son were officially put on the EU sanctions blacklist Friday along with 13 other officials because of their post-election crackdown. The formal move came after EU member states gave their assent and the decision was published in the bloc's official journal. Lukashenko, his son Viktor and the 13 others were added to an EU list drawn up in October that already had 40 names on it, including Belarus's interior minister. The sanctions ban them from obtaining visas for the European Union and also freeze their assets in the EU. The decision in principle to add Lukashenko and his son was made October 12 at a meeting of EU foreign ministers because of their responsibility for the "violent repression by the state apparatus before and after the 2020 presidential elections". The EU also held Lukashenko responsible for the exclusion of major opposition candidates in the election, "arbitrary arrests and the ill-treatment of peaceful demonstrators, as well as intimidation and violence against journalists". Lukashenko's son Viktor is an acting national security advisor in Belarus. Among the others targeted are Lukashenko's chief of staff, the head of the country's KGB secret service, and the leader's press officer. The EU rejected the results of the August 9 election and has said it does not regard Lukashenko as the legitimate president.

Belarus's Lukashenko and son put on sanctions list of European Union

The EU on Wednesday launched a procedure to sanction Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, his son Viktor and 13 others held responsible for a post-election crackdown in the former Soviet state, diplomatic sources in Brussels said.

The green light to ban visas and freeze the assets of Lukashenko and the 14 others was given by envoys from the EU's 27 member states and should be confirmed in the bloc's official journal by Friday, they said.

The EU has already imposed travel bans and asset freezes on 40 Lukashenko allies for rigging an election in August that returned him to power and for orchestrating a crackdown on mass protests that have rocked the country since the vote.

The bloc had held back from penalising Lukashenko, hoping to persuade him to engage in dialogue with opposition forces to resolve the crisis.

However, this hope was not fulfilled and in mid-October, EU foreign ministers gave the go-ahead in principle to take action against the leader.&nbsp;

Lukashenko is "responsible for the violent repression by the state apparatus before and after the 2020 presidential elections", said the sanctions decision seen by AFP.&nbsp;

It also handed him responsibility for the exclusion of important opposition candidates in the election, "arbitrary arrests and the ill-treatment of peaceful demonstrators, as well as intimidation and violence against journalists".&nbsp;

The EU is also targeting Lukashenko's son Viktor, who is an acting national security advisor in Belarus.&nbsp;

Among the other persons involved are the Lukashenko's chief of staff, Igor Sergeenko, the head of the KGB secret service, Ivan Tertel, and the leader's press officer.

The EU rejected the results of the August 9 election and said it did not regard Lukashenko as the legitimate president.

The EU on Wednesday launched a procedure to sanction Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, his son Viktor and 13 others held responsible for a post-election crackdown in the former Soviet state, diplomatic sources in Brussels said.

The EU on Wednesday launched a procedure to sanction Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, his son Viktor and 13 others held responsible for a post-election crackdown in the former Soviet state, diplomatic sources in Brussels said. The green light to ban visas and freeze the assets of Lukashenko and the 14 others was given by envoys from the EU's 27 member states and should be confirmed in the bloc's official journal by Friday, they said. The EU has already imposed travel bans and asset freezes on 40 Lukashenko allies for rigging an election in August that returned him to power and for orchestrating a crackdown on mass protests that have rocked the country since the vote. The bloc had held back from penalising Lukashenko, hoping to persuade him to engage in dialogue with opposition forces to resolve the crisis. However, this hope was not fulfilled and in mid-October, EU foreign ministers gave the go-ahead in principle to take action against the leader. Lukashenko is "responsible for the violent repression by the state apparatus before and after the 2020 presidential elections", said the sanctions decision seen by AFP. It also handed him responsibility for the exclusion of important opposition candidates in the election, "arbitrary arrests and the ill-treatment of peaceful demonstrators, as well as intimidation and violence against journalists". The EU is also targeting Lukashenko's son Viktor, who is an acting national security advisor in Belarus. Among the other persons involved are the Lukashenko's chief of staff, Igor Sergeenko, the head of the KGB secret service, Ivan Tertel, and the leader's press officer. The EU rejected the results of the August 9 election and said it did not regard Lukashenko as the legitimate president.

European Union launches sanctions against Belarus leader Lukashenko

Riot police fired warning shots into the air, used stun grenades, and arrested more than 200 people to deter tens of thousands of&nbsp;Belarusians who marched through Minsk on Sunday to demand veteran leader Alexander Lukashenko leave power.

The march aimed to both commemorate victims of Stalin-era repressions and to keep up pressure on Lukashenko who is facing unprecedented protests after claiming victory in an August election.

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The last time a march to the execution site was dispersed was under the Soviets in 1988, when authorities used tear gas against an anti-Communist demonstration.

Mass demonstrations have flooded the capital for 12 straight weeks since a disputed election, ratcheting up pressure on the embattled leader of 26 years who rejects accusations the vote was rigged and says he has no intention of quitting.

This week Lukashenko partially closed the border to the west, replaced his interior minister, and said that any protester who lays a hand on officers policing the protests should "at least leave without hands".

Tens of thousands of people swept through Minsk in at least two columns, the Nasha Niva newspaper reported.

The Vesna-96 rights group published the names of 221 people who had been detained.

Demonstrators carried banners reading, "The people's memory (lasts) longer than a life of a dictatorship" and "Stop torturing your people!"

The crowds directed chants of "Go away!" at Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who won his sixth term in an August 9 election that is widely seen as rigged. Lukashenko's crushing victory over his popular, inexperienced challenger, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, has triggered the largest and the most sustained wave of mass protests of his 26 years in power.

The 66-year-old former state farm director, who was once nicknamed "Europe's Latest Dictator", has relentlessly suppressed opposition and independent media in Belarus but struggled to quell the recent unrest. Large protest crowds have assembled in the streets of Minsk and other cities almost daily, despite police countering the demonstrations with water cannons, stun grenades, rubber bullets and mass detentions.

The Belarusian Interior Ministry threatened to use firearms against the rally-goers "if need be". On Sunday, police acknowledged officers fired several warning shots into the air during the demonstration in Minsk "to prevent violations of the law", but maintained that "non-lethal weapons" were used.

Armoured off-road vehicles equipped with machine guns were seen in Minsk for the first time in almost three months of protests, along with water cannon vehicles and other anti-riot equipment. Several metro stations were closed and mobile internet service did not work.

Police detained over 250 people in Minsk and other Belarusian cities where protests were held on Sunday, according to the Viasna centre. Several journalists were among the detainees and many of those detained were beaten up, human rights activists said.

"The authorities are trying to close the lid on the boiling Belarusian pot more tightly, but history knows very well what this leads to," Viasna leader Ales Bialiatski said.

Tsikhanouskaya entered the presidential race instead of her husband, a popular opposition blogger after he was jailed in May. She challenged the results of the election in which she secured 10 per cent of the vote to the incumbent president's 80 per cent, then left Belarus for Lithuania under pressure from the authorities.

She issued a statement on Sunday in support of the ongoing protests. 
"The terror is happening once again in our country right now," Tsikhanouskaya said. "We have not forgotten our past, we will not forget what is happening now."

Over 15,000 people have been detained since the presidential election, and human rights activists have declared more than 100 of them to be political prisoners.

All prominent members at the helm of the opposition's Coordination Council, which was formed to push for a transition of power, have either been jailed or left the country. One more activist on the Council, Denis Gotto, was detained during Sunday's demonstration. 
Lukashenko scoffed at suggestions of dialogue with the opposition and instead intensified the crackdown on protesters, ordering officials to expel students from universities for participating in demonstrations and to take action against plant workers that go on strike.

On Thursday, the government shut Belarus' borders with Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine. They said the move was intended to stem the spread of the coronavirus, although officials previously accused neighbouring countries of trying to destabilise Belarus.

Starting Sunday, all foreigners -- with the exception of diplomats, government officials, individuals with permits to work in Belarus and people in some other narrow categories -- were banned from crossing the country's land borders. Foreigners, however, are allowed to travel into Belarus via the Minsk National Airport.&nbsp;

Riot police fired warning shots into the air, used stun grenades, and arrested more than 200 people to deter tens of thousands of Belarusians who marched through Minsk on Sunday to demand veteran leader Alexander Lukashenko leave power.

Riot police fired warning shots into the air, used stun grenades, and arrested more than 200 people to deter tens of thousands of Belarusians who marched through Minsk on Sunday to demand veteran leader Alexander Lukashenko leave power. The march aimed to both commemorate victims of Stalin-era repressions and to keep up pressure on Lukashenko who is facing unprecedented protests after claiming victory in an August election. The last time a march to the execution site was dispersed was under the Soviets in 1988, when authorities used tear gas against an anti-Communist demonstration. Mass demonstrations have flooded the capital for 12 straight weeks since a disputed election, ratcheting up pressure on the embattled leader of 26 years who rejects accusations the vote was rigged and says he has no intention of quitting. This week Lukashenko partially closed the border to the west, replaced his interior minister, and said that any protester who lays a hand on officers policing the protests should "at least leave without hands". Tens of thousands of people swept through Minsk in at least two columns, the Nasha Niva newspaper reported. The Vesna-96 rights group published the names of 221 people who had been detained. Demonstrators carried banners reading, "The people's memory (lasts) longer than a life of a dictatorship" and "Stop torturing your people!" The crowds directed chants of "Go away!" at Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who won his sixth term in an August 9 election that is widely seen as rigged. Lukashenko's crushing victory over his popular, inexperienced challenger, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, has triggered the largest and the most sustained wave of mass protests of his 26 years in power. The 66-year-old former state farm director, who was once nicknamed "Europe's Latest Dictator", has relentlessly suppressed opposition and independent media in Belarus but struggled to quell the recent unrest. Large protest crowds have assembled in the streets of Minsk and other cities almost daily, despite police countering the demonstrations with water cannons, stun grenades, rubber bullets and mass detentions. The Belarusian Interior Ministry threatened to use firearms against the rally-goers "if need be". On Sunday, police acknowledged officers fired several warning shots into the air during the demonstration in Minsk "to prevent violations of the law", but maintained that "non-lethal weapons" were used. Armoured off-road vehicles equipped with machine guns were seen in Minsk for the first time in almost three months of protests, along with water cannon vehicles and other anti-riot equipment. Several metro stations were closed and mobile internet service did not work. Police detained over 250 people in Minsk and other Belarusian cities where protests were held on Sunday, according to the Viasna centre. Several journalists were among the detainees and many of those detained were beaten up, human rights activists said. "The authorities are trying to close the lid on the boiling Belarusian pot more tightly, but history knows very well what this leads to," Viasna leader Ales Bialiatski said. Tsikhanouskaya entered the presidential race instead of her husband, a popular opposition blogger after he was jailed in May. She challenged the results of the election in which she secured 10 per cent of the vote to the incumbent president's 80 per cent, then left Belarus for Lithuania under pressure from the authorities. She issued a statement on Sunday in support of the ongoing protests. "The terror is happening once again in our country right now," Tsikhanouskaya said. "We have not forgotten our past, we will not forget what is happening now." Over 15,000 people have been detained since the presidential election, and human rights activists have declared more than 100 of them to be political prisoners. All prominent members at the helm of the opposition's Coordination Council, which was formed to push for a transition of power, have either been jailed or left the country. One more activist on the Council, Denis Gotto, was detained during Sunday's demonstration. Lukashenko scoffed at suggestions of dialogue with the opposition and instead intensified the crackdown on protesters, ordering officials to expel students from universities for participating in demonstrations and to take action against plant workers that go on strike. On Thursday, the government shut Belarus' borders with Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine. They said the move was intended to stem the spread of the coronavirus, although officials previously accused neighbouring countries of trying to destabilise Belarus. Starting Sunday, all foreigners -- with the exception of diplomats, government officials, individuals with permits to work in Belarus and people in some other narrow categories -- were banned from crossing the country's land borders. Foreigners, however, are allowed to travel into Belarus via the Minsk National Airport.

Defying warning shots, tens of thousands protest in Belarus

Police detained over 150 people in Minsk and other Belarusian cities where protests were held Sunday, according to the Viasna center.

Police fire warning shots as thousands protest in Belarus

With Belarus still rocked by protests against President Alexander Lukashenko, the strongman leader promoted the Minsk police chief to new interior minister on Thursday.

Belarus: Lukashenko closes borders amid security shakeup

After workers and students across Belarus have launched strikes in a show of defiance at the regime of Alexander Lukashenko, the Belarus president said his opponents had ‘crossed a red line’.

Twelve weeks after a disputed presidential election, the crisis in the former Soviet republic entered a new phase.

According to reports, President Lukashenko's government in Belarus has put opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on its "wanted list".

Tsikhanouskaya had fled to Lithuania after the disputed August 9 elections which were claimed by Lukashenko. Tsikhanouskaya was later seen in Berlin where she met Chancellor Merkel while calling for Lukashenko's removal.

Meanwhile, over 500 criminal cases have been opened in Belarus over riots and participation of Belarusian citizens in them, Andrey Serbun, deputy head of the Belarusian Prosecutor General`s Office`s department for overseeing the implementation of legislation by the Investigative Committee, said.

"In the past few months, we have seen an increase in the number of criminal cases related to the organization of mass riots and active participation in them. More than 500 such criminal cases have already been initiated," Serbun told the Belarus-1 TV channel.

According to him, the overwhelming majority of these criminal cases are related to the events in Minsk.

"Each offender will be identified, their actions will be given an appropriate legal assessment," Serbun said.

After the presidential elections held in Belarus on August 9, 2020, won, according to the Central Election Commission (CEC), for the sixth time by Alexander Lukashenko with 80.1 percent of the vote, mass opposition protests began in the country.

When dispersing the rallies, law enforcement officers used tear gas, water cannons, stun grenades and rubber bullets against protesters who disagreed with voting results.

Protests continue to this day, the largest - on weekends. In addition, events are held by supporters of President Lukashenko, whose inauguration took place on September 23. Law enforcement agencies say protests radicalised in Belarus. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

After workers and students across Belarus have launched strikes in a show of defiance at the regime of Alexander Lukashenko, the Belarus president said his opponents had ‘crossed a red line’.

After workers and students across Belarus have launched strikes in a show of defiance at the regime of Alexander Lukashenko, the Belarus president said his opponents had ‘crossed a red line’. Twelve weeks after a disputed presidential election, the crisis in the former Soviet republic entered a new phase. According to reports, President Lukashenko's government in Belarus has put opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on its "wanted list". Tsikhanouskaya had fled to Lithuania after the disputed August 9 elections which were claimed by Lukashenko. Tsikhanouskaya was later seen in Berlin where she met Chancellor Merkel while calling for Lukashenko's removal. Meanwhile, over 500 criminal cases have been opened in Belarus over riots and participation of Belarusian citizens in them, Andrey Serbun, deputy head of the Belarusian Prosecutor General`s Office`s department for overseeing the implementation of legislation by the Investigative Committee, said. "In the past few months, we have seen an increase in the number of criminal cases related to the organization of mass riots and active participation in them. More than 500 such criminal cases have already been initiated," Serbun told the Belarus-1 TV channel. According to him, the overwhelming majority of these criminal cases are related to the events in Minsk. "Each offender will be identified, their actions will be given an appropriate legal assessment," Serbun said. After the presidential elections held in Belarus on August 9, 2020, won, according to the Central Election Commission (CEC), for the sixth time by Alexander Lukashenko with 80.1 percent of the vote, mass opposition protests began in the country. When dispersing the rallies, law enforcement officers used tear gas, water cannons, stun grenades and rubber bullets against protesters who disagreed with voting results. Protests continue to this day, the largest - on weekends. In addition, events are held by supporters of President Lukashenko, whose inauguration took place on September 23. Law enforcement agencies say protests radicalised in Belarus. (With inputs from agencies)

Citizens launch anti-Lukashenko strike, 500 riot-related cases initiated in Belarus

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko defied an ultimatum to surrender power by midnight on Sunday, challenging his opponents to make good on their threat to paralyse the country with a national strike.

Eleven weeks after a disputed presidential election, the crisis in the former Soviet republic entered a new phase with the expiry of the "People's Ultimatum" set by opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya.

Lukashenko's refusal to quit after 26 years in power will test whether the opposition has the mass support it needs to bring enterprises across the country of 9.5 million people to a halt.

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Tikhanovskaya, a 38-year-old political newcomer, fled&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;after claiming victory in an August presidential election that Lukashenko, 66, himself claimed to have carried for a sixth term. She has been rallying support from European leaders and calling for new elections.

During a visit to Copenhagen on Friday to meet Danish Foreign Minister Jeppe Kofod she called for a repeat ballot "as soon as possible", and in a separate statements said a date for the vote must be decided by the end of the year.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/we-come-in-peace-belarusian-women-dressed-in-white-protest-against-corrupt-leadership-321060">We come in peace: Belarusian women dressed in white protest against corrupt leadership</a>

Yet she also conceded that it was unclear how many Belarusians would answer the call for a general strike Monday, with many people anxious about government intimidation and dismissal from positions at state-run enterprises.&nbsp;

Lukashenko has scoffed at the calls, asking "Who will feed the kids?" if workers at state-owned enterprises go on strike.

Tsikhanouskaya on Sunday called for the strike to go ahead after police forces loyal to Lukashenko fired stun grenades and detained scores of people in a clampdown on protests by tens of thousands in Minsk and elsewhere.

"The regime once again showed&nbsp;Belarusians that force is the only thing it is capable of," she wrote in a statement. "That's why tomorrow, October&nbsp;26, a national strike will begin."

The standoff is being closely watched by neighbouring Russia and by Western governments.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has no desire to see another leader toppled by protests in a former Soviet state, as happened in Ukraine in 2014 and in Kyrgyzstan earlier this month. He too has faced street demonstrations at various times, including for the past three months in the far eastern city of Khabarovsk.

Since the crisis began, Moscow has backed Lukashenko with a $1.5 billion loan and increased security cooperation, including a series of joint military exercises and a visit last week by the head of Russia's foreign intelligence agency.

Security lockdown

Lukashenko, 66, claimed victory in the August&nbsp;9 election with an official vote share of more than 80 per cent, but the opposition accused him of vote-rigging on a massive scale.

He has responded to mass street protests by arresting around 15,000 people, though most have since been released, and jailing opposition leaders or forcing them to leave the country.

A UN&nbsp;human rights investigator said last month that thousands of people had been "savagely beaten" and there were more than 500 reports of torture, which the authorities deny.

The United States, European Union, Britain, and Canada have imposed travel bans and asset freezes against a string of officials accused of election fraud and human rights abuses.

Tsikhanouskaya presented her ultimatum on Oct. 13 after the government said police would be authorised to use combat weapons against protesters if needed.

Three days later, a senior police official repeated the threat.

"We will of course humanely use weapons against them, including firearms, and we will remove the most dangerous ones from the streets," said Nikolai Karpenkov, head of the police unit in charge of fighting organised crime.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko defied an ultimatum to surrender power by midnight on Sunday, challenging his opponents to make good on their threat to paralyse the country with a national strike.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko defied an ultimatum to surrender power by midnight on Sunday, challenging his opponents to make good on their threat to paralyse the country with a national strike. Eleven weeks after a disputed presidential election, the crisis in the former Soviet republic entered a new phase with the expiry of the "People's Ultimatum" set by opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. Lukashenko's refusal to quit after 26 years in power will test whether the opposition has the mass support it needs to bring enterprises across the country of 9.5 million people to a halt. Tikhanovskaya, a 38-year-old political newcomer, fled Belarus after claiming victory in an August presidential election that Lukashenko, 66, himself claimed to have carried for a sixth term. She has been rallying support from European leaders and calling for new elections. During a visit to Copenhagen on Friday to meet Danish Foreign Minister Jeppe Kofod she called for a repeat ballot "as soon as possible", and in a separate statements said a date for the vote must be decided by the end of the year. Also see: We come in peace: Belarusian women dressed in white protest against corrupt leadership Yet she also conceded that it was unclear how many Belarusians would answer the call for a general strike Monday, with many people anxious about government intimidation and dismissal from positions at state-run enterprises. Lukashenko has scoffed at the calls, asking "Who will feed the kids?" if workers at state-owned enterprises go on strike. Tsikhanouskaya on Sunday called for the strike to go ahead after police forces loyal to Lukashenko fired stun grenades and detained scores of people in a clampdown on protests by tens of thousands in Minsk and elsewhere. "The regime once again showed Belarusians that force is the only thing it is capable of," she wrote in a statement. "That's why tomorrow, October 26, a national strike will begin." The standoff is being closely watched by neighbouring Russia and by Western governments. Russian President Vladimir Putin has no desire to see another leader toppled by protests in a former Soviet state, as happened in Ukraine in 2014 and in Kyrgyzstan earlier this month. He too has faced street demonstrations at various times, including for the past three months in the far eastern city of Khabarovsk. Since the crisis began, Moscow has backed Lukashenko with a $1.5 billion loan and increased security cooperation, including a series of joint military exercises and a visit last week by the head of Russia's foreign intelligence agency. Security lockdown Lukashenko, 66, claimed victory in the August 9 election with an official vote share of more than 80 per cent, but the opposition accused him of vote-rigging on a massive scale. He has responded to mass street protests by arresting around 15,000 people, though most have since been released, and jailing opposition leaders or forcing them to leave the country. A UN human rights investigator said last month that thousands of people had been "savagely beaten" and there were more than 500 reports of torture, which the authorities deny. The United States, European Union, Britain, and Canada have imposed travel bans and asset freezes against a string of officials accused of election fraud and human rights abuses. Tsikhanouskaya presented her ultimatum on Oct. 13 after the government said police would be authorised to use combat weapons against protesters if needed. Three days later, a senior police official repeated the threat. "We will of course humanely use weapons against them, including firearms, and we will remove the most dangerous ones from the streets," said Nikolai Karpenkov, head of the police unit in charge of fighting organised crime.

Belarus opposition prepares mass strikes after Lukashenko ignores deadline to quit

Belarus' interior ministry said on Thursday the opposition protests in the country were developing into a terrorist threat. Belarus has been roiled in protests for more than two months now.&nbsp;

Amid all the protests, the head of Russia's SVR foreign intelligence service made a surprise visit to Belarus on Thursday. This is widely being seen as Russia's support for Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko.

Lukashenko was elected president in August 9 elections and won a landslide victory. However, his opponents say that the elections were rigged. Massive protests have rocked the country since then. Lukashenko has been ruling Belarus for more than two decades.

On Thursday, the European Parliament awarded Belarus' democratic opposition its annual human rights prize, in support of the country's protests against the results of an August presidential election that the West and the opposition say was rigged.

The parliament cited 10 opposition figures in its award statement, including the main opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and Nobel laureate author Svetlana Alexievich.

The EU, Britain, Canada and United States accuse Lukashenko of maintaining power by holding fraudulent elections, jailing opponents and muzzling independent media.

The 50,000 euro ($59,180) Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, named after Soviet dissident Andrei Sakharov, is awarded every year. Past winners include South African President Nelson Mandela, Venezuela's democratic opposition and Pakistani education activist Malala Yousafzai.

(With Reuters inputs)

Belarus' interior ministry said on Thursday the opposition protests in the country were developing into a terrorist threat. Belarus has been roiled in protests for more than two months now.

Belarus' interior ministry said on Thursday the opposition protests in the country were developing into a terrorist threat. Belarus has been roiled in protests for more than two months now. Amid all the protests, the head of Russia's SVR foreign intelligence service made a surprise visit to Belarus on Thursday. This is widely being seen as Russia's support for Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko. Lukashenko was elected president in August 9 elections and won a landslide victory. However, his opponents say that the elections were rigged. Massive protests have rocked the country since then. Lukashenko has been ruling Belarus for more than two decades. On Thursday, the European Parliament awarded Belarus' democratic opposition its annual human rights prize, in support of the country's protests against the results of an August presidential election that the West and the opposition say was rigged. The parliament cited 10 opposition figures in its award statement, including the main opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and Nobel laureate author Svetlana Alexievich. The EU, Britain, Canada and United States accuse Lukashenko of maintaining power by holding fraudulent elections, jailing opponents and muzzling independent media. The 50,000 euro ($59,180) Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, named after Soviet dissident Andrei Sakharov, is awarded every year. Past winners include South African President Nelson Mandela, Venezuela's democratic opposition and Pakistani education activist Malala Yousafzai. (With Reuters inputs)

Belarus says opposition protests developing into terrorist threat

Belarus’ authoritarian president on October 10 visited a prison to talk to opposition activists, who have been jailed for challenging his re-election and triggered two months of protests.

Belarus President Lukashenko meets 11 jailed activists

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya met&nbsp;German Chancellor Angela Merkel&nbsp;for private talks in Berlin on Tuesday according to a German government spokeswoman.

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In picture:&nbsp;German chancellor Angela Merkel meeting with Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya at the Chancellery in Berlin/Twitter

The meeting came after Tsikhanouskaya's meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Vilnius last week, until then the highest-profile Western leader to meet the exiled opposition figure.

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After Tsikhanouskaya's closed door meeting with Merkel, with no cameras allowed, the Belarusian opposition leader met the German opposition Green Party's leadership inside parliament.

Tsikhanouskaya posed for cameras with the German parliament's vice president of the Greens, Claudia Roth and other senior women of the party before they met for talks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-denies-lukashenko-recognition-as-belarus-president-329683">Germany denies Lukashenko recognition as Belarus president</a>

Drum up support

Tsikhanouskaya, who says she won Belarus's presidential election two months ago and accuses long-standing President Alexander&nbsp;Lukashenko&nbsp;of hanging on to power only via massive electoral fraud, is in Berlin to drum up support.

Merkel, whose country holds the rotating presidency of the European Union, has said Germany does not recognise&nbsp;Lukashenko&nbsp;as the winner of the vote and condemned the government's violence against protesters.

"This, our struggle, has not only united the Belarusians in our homeland but in the whole world," Tikhanovskaya told several dozen demonstrators waving red-and-white banners and placards in the German capital Monday evening.

"I learned today that the Belarusians in Berlin, but also in other German cities, hardly knew each other before," Tikhanovskaya told the crowd.

"But this summer, Belarus and Belarusians have united. We don't know how long this struggle will last but we need your help. The government has not heard us for 26 years and it does not hear us now," she added.

The United States and the EU hit Belarus officials with long-awaited sanctions on Friday, drawing an angry response from Minsk and its ally Moscow.

Tikhanovskaya only joined the political fray after her husband Sergei -- a popular blogger -- was barred from registering as a presidential candidate and arrested for allegedly plotting to overthrow the government.

The 38-year-old has met with leaders in Poland and Lithuania, but her talks with Macron have been the most high profile to date.

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya met German Chancellor Angela Merkel for private talks in Berlin on Tuesday according to a German government spokeswoman.

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya met German Chancellor Angela Merkel for private talks in Berlin on Tuesday according to a German government spokeswoman. In picture: German chancellor Angela Merkel meeting with Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya at the Chancellery in Berlin/Twitter The meeting came after Tsikhanouskaya's meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Vilnius last week, until then the highest-profile Western leader to meet the exiled opposition figure. After Tsikhanouskaya's closed door meeting with Merkel, with no cameras allowed, the Belarusian opposition leader met the German opposition Green Party's leadership inside parliament. Tsikhanouskaya posed for cameras with the German parliament's vice president of the Greens, Claudia Roth and other senior women of the party before they met for talks. Also read: Germany denies Lukashenko recognition as Belarus president Drum up support Tsikhanouskaya, who says she won Belarus's presidential election two months ago and accuses long-standing President Alexander Lukashenko of hanging on to power only via massive electoral fraud, is in Berlin to drum up support. Merkel, whose country holds the rotating presidency of the European Union, has said Germany does not recognise Lukashenko as the winner of the vote and condemned the government's violence against protesters. "This, our struggle, has not only united the Belarusians in our homeland but in the whole world," Tikhanovskaya told several dozen demonstrators waving red-and-white banners and placards in the German capital Monday evening. "I learned today that the Belarusians in Berlin, but also in other German cities, hardly knew each other before," Tikhanovskaya told the crowd. "But this summer, Belarus and Belarusians have united. We don't know how long this struggle will last but we need your help. The government has not heard us for 26 years and it does not hear us now," she added. The United States and the EU hit Belarus officials with long-awaited sanctions on Friday, drawing an angry response from Minsk and its ally Moscow. Tikhanovskaya only joined the political fray after her husband Sergei -- a popular blogger -- was barred from registering as a presidential candidate and arrested for allegedly plotting to overthrow the government. The 38-year-old has met with leaders in Poland and Lithuania, but her talks with Macron have been the most high profile to date.

Belarus opposition leader meets Merkel to drum up support against Lukashenko

French President&nbsp;Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday&nbsp;invited&nbsp;Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya to address his country's&nbsp;parliament, following a meeting with her during his Lithunai visit.

Tikhanovskaya said&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;promised her to help negotiate with the Belarus authorities and secure the release of the political prisoners.

"He promised us to do everything to help with negotiations, (during) this political crisis in our country ... and he will do everything to help to release all the political prisoners", Tsikhanouskaya told reporters in English after the meeting in Vilnius.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/we-come-in-peace-belarusian-women-dressed-in-white-protest-against-corrupt-leadership-321060">We come in peace: Belarusian women dressed in white protest against corrupt leadership</a>

Highest-profile meeting yet

It was&nbsp;Tikhanovskaya's most high-profile meeting with an international leader since the elections on August 9 and the protests which she has helped inspire.

She has previously met with leaders in neighbouring Poland and Lithuania, which have taken a lead in European diplomacy on Belarus, and with EU foreign ministers in Brussels.

The EU is considering personal sanctions against Lukashenko and other high-profile figures seen as responsible for the violent crackdown.

On Monday, on his first day in Vilnius, where Tsikhanouskaya fled into exile,&nbsp;Macron&nbsp;urged Belarus authorities to stop unlawful arrests, release protesters detained arbitrarily and respect election results.

He had urged Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko to go on Sunday, hardening his stance as tens of thousands marched in Belarus for a seventh straight weekend to demand Lukashenko quit.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday invited Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya to address his country's parliament, following a meeting with her during his Lithunai visit.

French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday invited Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya to address his country's parliament, following a meeting with her during his Lithunai visit. Tikhanovskaya said Macron promised her to help negotiate with the Belarus authorities and secure the release of the political prisoners. "He promised us to do everything to help with negotiations, (during) this political crisis in our country ... and he will do everything to help to release all the political prisoners", Tsikhanouskaya told reporters in English after the meeting in Vilnius. Also see: We come in peace: Belarusian women dressed in white protest against corrupt leadership Highest-profile meeting yet It was Tikhanovskaya's most high-profile meeting with an international leader since the elections on August 9 and the protests which she has helped inspire. She has previously met with leaders in neighbouring Poland and Lithuania, which have taken a lead in European diplomacy on Belarus, and with EU foreign ministers in Brussels. The EU is considering personal sanctions against Lukashenko and other high-profile figures seen as responsible for the violent crackdown. On Monday, on his first day in Vilnius, where Tsikhanouskaya fled into exile, Macron urged Belarus authorities to stop unlawful arrests, release protesters detained arbitrarily and respect election results. He had urged Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko to go on Sunday, hardening his stance as tens of thousands marched in Belarus for a seventh straight weekend to demand Lukashenko quit.

Emmanuel Macron invites Belarus opposition leader to address French parliament

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday responded defiantly to the European Union and the United States which refused to recognise his inauguration as president citing rigged polls.

"They're shouting that they don't recognise us," Lukashenko said at a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador Cui Qiming.

A number of Western countries have refused to acknowledge Lukashenko as president, following his inauguration on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cannot-consider-lukashenko-legitimately-elected-leader-of-belarus-us-329799" hreflang="en">Cannot consider Lukashenko legitimately elected leader of Belarus: US</a>

He claimed to have won 80 percent of the vote in August 9 polls despite huge support for his opposition rival, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya.

The United States described the elections as "fraudulent."

Lukashenko insisted: "We never asked anyone to recognise or not recognise our elections, or to recognise the legitimacy of the re-elected president or not."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-protest-in-minsk-after-belarusian-leader-lukashenko-hastily-sworn-in-329768" hreflang="en">Thousands protest in Minsk after Belarusian leader Lukashenko hastily sworn-in</a>

On Thursday, the European Union said that Lukashenko's inauguration for a sixth term the day before lacked "any democratic legitimacy" and was reviewing its relations with Minsk.

Earlier on Wednesday, the United States and European countries including Germany said they refused to recognise Lukashenko as the president of the ex-Soviet state because the elections were not free or fair.&nbsp;

The non-transparent ballot included several days of early voting while&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;failed to invite international observer group OSCE in time.

The opposition has called for fresh elections to be held according to international standards.

The authoritarian leader,&nbsp;in power since 1994,&nbsp;said of the inauguration that "the main thing is that this should correspond to our country's constitution. And if they see contradictions, let them say so."&nbsp;

Lukashenko also responded to criticism of his decision to hold his inauguration without prior announcement and without live television coverage, in an apparent move to prevent protesters gathering.

The Belarusian strongman said that his motorcade drove through the city and some 2,000 people were invited to the ceremony including the military, arguing "there was no secret."

Several thousand protesters took to the streets of Minsk on Wednesday evening and the interior ministry said police detained 252 demonstrators in the capital.

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday responded defiantly to the European Union and the United States which refused to recognise his inauguration as president citing rigged polls.

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday responded defiantly to the European Union and the United States which refused to recognise his inauguration as president citing rigged polls. "They're shouting that they don't recognise us," Lukashenko said at a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador Cui Qiming. A number of Western countries have refused to acknowledge Lukashenko as president, following his inauguration on Wednesday. Also read: Cannot consider Lukashenko legitimately elected leader of Belarus: US He claimed to have won 80 percent of the vote in August 9 polls despite huge support for his opposition rival, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya. The United States described the elections as "fraudulent." Lukashenko insisted: "We never asked anyone to recognise or not recognise our elections, or to recognise the legitimacy of the re-elected president or not." Also read: Thousands protest in Minsk after Belarusian leader Lukashenko hastily sworn-in On Thursday, the European Union said that Lukashenko's inauguration for a sixth term the day before lacked "any democratic legitimacy" and was reviewing its relations with Minsk. Earlier on Wednesday, the United States and European countries including Germany said they refused to recognise Lukashenko as the president of the ex-Soviet state because the elections were not free or fair. The non-transparent ballot included several days of early voting while Belarus failed to invite international observer group OSCE in time. The opposition has called for fresh elections to be held according to international standards. The authoritarian leader, in power since 1994, said of the inauguration that "the main thing is that this should correspond to our country's constitution. And if they see contradictions, let them say so." Lukashenko also responded to criticism of his decision to hold his inauguration without prior announcement and without live television coverage, in an apparent move to prevent protesters gathering. The Belarusian strongman said that his motorcade drove through the city and some 2,000 people were invited to the ceremony including the military, arguing "there was no secret." Several thousand protesters took to the streets of Minsk on Wednesday evening and the interior ministry said police detained 252 demonstrators in the capital.

Belarusian leader Lukashenko shrugs off Western vote rejection

Germany on&nbsp;Wednesday said that it does not recognise Alexander Lukashenko as the president of Belarus.

"The minimum requirements for democratic elections were by no means met. They were neither fair nor free. One can therefore not recognise the result of this vote," said Steffen Seibert after Lukashenko took the oath of office at a secret ceremony on Wednesday.

"Even after today's ceremony,&nbsp;Lukashenko cannot evoke democratic legitimacy which would have been the condition for him to be recognised as a legitimate president."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lukashenko-secretly-sworn-in-for-new-presidential-term-in-belarus-report-329618" hreflang="en">Lukashenko secretly sworn in for new presidential term in Belarus: Report</a>

The spokesman added that "the fact that this ceremony was prepared secretly and carried out away from the public eye is very telling."

The ceremony, which would normally be publicised in advance as a major state occasion, follows a disputed election on August&nbsp;9 in which Lukashenko, in power since 1994, claimed a landslide victory.&nbsp;

Earlier, more than 100,000 people marched through Minsk on Sunday on the sixth straight weekend of protests against President Alexander Lukashenko, keeping up the pressure on the veteran Belarusian leader to quit.

The eastern European country was plunged into turmoil following a presidential election last month that Lukashenko says he won by a landslide, but the opposition says was rigged.

Germany on Wednesday said that it does not recognise Alexander Lukashenko as the president of Belarus. "The minimum requirements for democratic elections were by no means met.

Germany on Wednesday said that it does not recognise Alexander Lukashenko as the president of Belarus. "The minimum requirements for democratic elections were by no means met. They were neither fair nor free. One can therefore not recognise the result of this vote," said Steffen Seibert after Lukashenko took the oath of office at a secret ceremony on Wednesday. "Even after today's ceremony, Lukashenko cannot evoke democratic legitimacy which would have been the condition for him to be recognised as a legitimate president." Also read: Lukashenko secretly sworn in for new presidential term in Belarus: Report The spokesman added that "the fact that this ceremony was prepared secretly and carried out away from the public eye is very telling." The ceremony, which would normally be publicised in advance as a major state occasion, follows a disputed election on August 9 in which Lukashenko, in power since 1994, claimed a landslide victory. Earlier, more than 100,000 people marched through Minsk on Sunday on the sixth straight weekend of protests against President Alexander Lukashenko, keeping up the pressure on the veteran Belarusian leader to quit. The eastern European country was plunged into turmoil following a presidential election last month that Lukashenko says he won by a landslide, but the opposition says was rigged.

Germany denies Lukashenko recognition as Belarus president

Belarus&nbsp;opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya on Monday urged the EU to show courage and step up its support for her movement, as the bloc's internal squabbles about sanctions rolled on.

Tikhanovskaya met EU foreign ministers in Brussels and urged them to sanction Lukashenko but, despite repeated statements condemning the veteran strongman and warning of measures, after 44 days the bloc has yet to act.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarusian-authorities-bring-military-trucks-to-thwart-planned-protest-328882" hreflang="en">Belarusian authorities bring military trucks to thwart planned protest</a>

"EU leaders have reasons not to push sanctions but I asked them to be more brave,"&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who fled to Lithuania after the election, told reporters after meeting foreign ministers.

"Sanctions are important in our fight because it's part of pressure that could force the so-called authorities to start dialogue with us in the opposition council."

The EU said in late August it would impose asset freezes and travel bans on&nbsp;Belarusian officials. But sanctions require agreement among all 27 member states, and the&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;issue has become entangled in a debate over separate sanctions against Turkey, sought by Cyprus in a dispute over energy resources.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mass-rallies-and-police-data-leaks-in-belarus-keep-pressure-on-lukashenko-329061" hreflang="en">Mass rallies and police data leaks in Belarus keep pressure on Lukashenko</a>

The former Soviet republic has been convulsed by unprecedented demonstrations against President Alexander Lukashenko since he was returned to power in a disputed August 9 election and launched a brutal crackdown.

Cyprus says it supports sanctions on&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;but wants the bloc to act over Turkey as well.

"Our reaction to any kind of violation of our core, basic values and principles cannot be a la carte. It needs to be consistent," Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides said.

EU leaders will discuss the Cyprus issue on Thursday at a summit. EU diplomats say Germany is concerned sanctions would undermine diplomatic progress in easing tension with Ankara.

Lithuania's Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius, one of the strongest advocates for&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;sanctions, said he hoped other EU countries "will not keep the European Union in limbo and will not take (it) hostage".

The presidents of Lithuania, Poland and Romania said on Monday they will ask EU leaders at this week's summit to offer an economic support package for&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;if it holds a democratic election. That would include a favourable trade regime with the EU, visa-free travel and support as a candidate for the World Trade Organization.

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya on Monday urged the EU to show courage and step up its support for her movement, as the bloc's internal squabbles about sanctions rolled on.

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya on Monday urged the EU to show courage and step up its support for her movement, as the bloc's internal squabbles about sanctions rolled on. Tikhanovskaya met EU foreign ministers in Brussels and urged them to sanction Lukashenko but, despite repeated statements condemning the veteran strongman and warning of measures, after 44 days the bloc has yet to act. Also read: Belarusian authorities bring military trucks to thwart planned protest "EU leaders have reasons not to push sanctions but I asked them to be more brave," Belarus opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who fled to Lithuania after the election, told reporters after meeting foreign ministers. "Sanctions are important in our fight because it's part of pressure that could force the so-called authorities to start dialogue with us in the opposition council." The EU said in late August it would impose asset freezes and travel bans on Belarusian officials. But sanctions require agreement among all 27 member states, and the Belarus issue has become entangled in a debate over separate sanctions against Turkey, sought by Cyprus in a dispute over energy resources. Also read: Mass rallies and police data leaks in Belarus keep pressure on Lukashenko The former Soviet republic has been convulsed by unprecedented demonstrations against President Alexander Lukashenko since he was returned to power in a disputed August 9 election and launched a brutal crackdown. Cyprus says it supports sanctions on Belarus but wants the bloc to act over Turkey as well. "Our reaction to any kind of violation of our core, basic values and principles cannot be a la carte. It needs to be consistent," Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides said. EU leaders will discuss the Cyprus issue on Thursday at a summit. EU diplomats say Germany is concerned sanctions would undermine diplomatic progress in easing tension with Ankara. Lithuania's Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius, one of the strongest advocates for Belarus sanctions, said he hoped other EU countries "will not keep the European Union in limbo and will not take (it) hostage". The presidents of Lithuania, Poland and Romania said on Monday they will ask EU leaders at this week's summit to offer an economic support package for Belarus if it holds a democratic election. That would include a favourable trade regime with the EU, visa-free travel and support as a candidate for the World Trade Organization.

Belarus opposition leader urges European Union to approve sanctions on corrupt officials

Riot Police in Belarus detained hundreds of women on Saturday as marched against Alexander Lukashenko and his government in Minsk. The women were dragged into vans, some of them were even lifted off their feet by the riot police. Viasna rights group released an online list of names of 217 women detained. The group said that the list was being updated. Police did not give any number of women detainees.

Around two thousand women took part in the "Sparkly March", wearing shiny accessories and carrying red-and-white flags of the protest movement.

The march was the latest in a series of all-women protests calling for the strongman to leave following his disputed victory in elections last month.

Lukashenko's opponent Svetlana Tikhanovskaya who has taken refuge in Lithuania, praised the "brave women of Belarus".

"They are marching despite being constantly menaced and put under pressure," she said in a statement she released ahead of the march.

The marchers chanted slogans such as "Get out, you and your riot police!" and "We believe we can win!"

One of the placards read: "Our protest has a woman's face," a reference to the title of a popular book by the Belarusian Nobel prize winner Svetlana Alexievich, who has backed the opposition cause.

Among those detained on Saturday was Nina Baginskaya, a 73-year-old activist who has become one of the best-known faces of the protest movement, known for her plucky antics and regularly celebrated with a chant of "Nina! Nina!".&nbsp;

Police took away the flag and flowers she was carrying as they pushed her into a van but released her outside a police station shortly afterward.

Police detained so many protesters that they ran out of room in vans, releasing around 10 women.

The protest came as the opposition is due to hold mass demonstrations on Sunday and Tikhanovskaya will meet European Union foreign ministers and the bloc's diplomatic chief in Brussels on Monday.

The women's protests began in Belarus after Lukashenko's use of extreme violence against detained demonstrators.

Women began forming human chains and marching through Minsk and other cities wearing white clothes and carrying flowers in peaceful demonstrations that police initially allowed to go ahead.

Last weekend, police violently detained several dozen at a similar women's protest.

(With AFP inputs)

Riot Police in Belarus detained hundreds of women on Saturday as marched against Alexander Lukashenko and his government in Minsk. The women were dragged into vans, some of them were even lifted off their feet by the riot police.

Riot Police in Belarus detained hundreds of women on Saturday as marched against Alexander Lukashenko and his government in Minsk. The women were dragged into vans, some of them were even lifted off their feet by the riot police. Viasna rights group released an online list of names of 217 women detained. The group said that the list was being updated. Police did not give any number of women detainees. Around two thousand women took part in the "Sparkly March", wearing shiny accessories and carrying red-and-white flags of the protest movement. The march was the latest in a series of all-women protests calling for the strongman to leave following his disputed victory in elections last month. Lukashenko's opponent Svetlana Tikhanovskaya who has taken refuge in Lithuania, praised the "brave women of Belarus". "They are marching despite being constantly menaced and put under pressure," she said in a statement she released ahead of the march. The marchers chanted slogans such as "Get out, you and your riot police!" and "We believe we can win!" One of the placards read: "Our protest has a woman's face," a reference to the title of a popular book by the Belarusian Nobel prize winner Svetlana Alexievich, who has backed the opposition cause. Among those detained on Saturday was Nina Baginskaya, a 73-year-old activist who has become one of the best-known faces of the protest movement, known for her plucky antics and regularly celebrated with a chant of "Nina! Nina!". Police took away the flag and flowers she was carrying as they pushed her into a van but released her outside a police station shortly afterward. Police detained so many protesters that they ran out of room in vans, releasing around 10 women. The protest came as the opposition is due to hold mass demonstrations on Sunday and Tikhanovskaya will meet European Union foreign ministers and the bloc's diplomatic chief in Brussels on Monday. The women's protests began in Belarus after Lukashenko's use of extreme violence against detained demonstrators. Women began forming human chains and marching through Minsk and other cities wearing white clothes and carrying flowers in peaceful demonstrations that police initially allowed to go ahead. Last weekend, police violently detained several dozen at a similar women's protest. (With AFP inputs)

Hundreds of women detained by Belarus police during protests in Minsk

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