French President Emmanuel Macron will on Tuesday meet with Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya during his visit to Lithuania in what is seen as a major show of support for the activist.

Belarus opposition leader to meet French President Emmanuel Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron will on Tuesday meet with Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya during his visit to Lithuania in what is seen as a major show of support for the activist.

Tikhanovskaya, who fled to Vilnius after claiming victory in a disputed election, told AFP on Monday she had requested a meeting and called on Macron to help mediate in the crisis.

"The protests are not going to stop," the 38-year-old said in an interview, adding that Belarus "badly needs" a dialogue between government and opposition in order to ensure there is "no more blood".

Macron's office confirmed he would meet with Tikhanovskaya on Tuesday during his three-day visit to Lithuania and Latvia, marking a fresh initiative from the French leader in addition to recent efforts to resolve a political crisis in Lebanon.&nbsp;

It will be Tikhanovskaya's most high-profile meeting with an international leader since the elections on August 9 and the protests which she has helped inspire.

In her interview, Tikhanovskaya said Macron could encourage Russian President Vladimir Putin, a key ally of Belarusian strongman president Alexander Lukashenko, to take part in the dialogue.

Ahead of his arrival in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, Macron said it was clear that Lukashenko "has to go" after 26 years in power in the former Soviet republic.

He added he was impressed with the courage of protesters, who on Sunday staged their 50th day of demonstrations against Lukashenko since his disputed election win last month.

Belarusian police on Sunday detained around 200 people as tens of thousands took to the streets days after Lukashenko staged a secret inauguration.

Tikhanovskaya, whose blogger husband remains in a Belarus prison, also on Monday called for EU sanctions against businesses that support Lukashenko's government.

But she emphasised that the EU should stop short of general economic sanctions as "ordinary people will suffer most" from them.

- Highest-profile meeting yet -

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.

Lukashenko has also jailed or forced out most of the country's prominent opposition activists.

On Monday, Belarusian writer Svetlana Alexievich -- a Nobel Literature Prize winner who has faced official pressure for supporting the opposition -- left the country for planned treatment in Germany.

"She will return to Belarus in a month. She is not dropping her (opposition) activities," her friend Mariya Voiteshonok told AFP.&nbsp;

In addition to the talks with Tikhanovskaya and a meeting with his Lithuanian counterpart Gitanas Nauseda, Macron will also visit French troops&nbsp;stationed in the Baltic state as part of a NATO move to reinforce its eastern flank.

French President Emmanuel Macron will on Tuesday meet with Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya during his visit to Lithuania in what is seen as a major show of support for the activist. Tikhanovskaya, who fled to Vilnius after claiming victory in a disputed election, told AFP on Monday she had requested a meeting and called on Macron to help mediate in the crisis. "The protests are not going to stop," the 38-year-old said in an interview, adding that Belarus "badly needs" a dialogue between government and opposition in order to ensure there is "no more blood". Macron's office confirmed he would meet with Tikhanovskaya on Tuesday during his three-day visit to Lithuania and Latvia, marking a fresh initiative from the French leader in addition to recent efforts to resolve a political crisis in Lebanon. It will be Tikhanovskaya's most high-profile meeting with an international leader since the elections on August 9 and the protests which she has helped inspire. In her interview, Tikhanovskaya said Macron could encourage Russian President Vladimir Putin, a key ally of Belarusian strongman president Alexander Lukashenko, to take part in the dialogue. Ahead of his arrival in the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, Macron said it was clear that Lukashenko "has to go" after 26 years in power in the former Soviet republic. He added he was impressed with the courage of protesters, who on Sunday staged their 50th day of demonstrations against Lukashenko since his disputed election win last month. Belarusian police on Sunday detained around 200 people as tens of thousands took to the streets days after Lukashenko staged a secret inauguration. Tikhanovskaya, whose blogger husband remains in a Belarus prison, also on Monday called for EU sanctions against businesses that support Lukashenko's government. But she emphasised that the EU should stop short of general economic sanctions as "ordinary people will suffer most" from them. - Highest-profile meeting yet - 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. Lukashenko has also jailed or forced out most of the country's prominent opposition activists. On Monday, Belarusian writer Svetlana Alexievich -- a Nobel Literature Prize winner who has faced official pressure for supporting the opposition -- left the country for planned treatment in Germany. "She will return to Belarus in a month. She is not dropping her (opposition) activities," her friend Mariya Voiteshonok told AFP. In addition to the talks with Tikhanovskaya and a meeting with his Lithuanian counterpart Gitanas Nauseda, Macron will also visit French troops stationed in the Baltic state as part of a NATO move to reinforce its eastern flank.

Macron to meet Belarus opposition leader on September 29

Almost all the theatres in Belarus have been owned by the state since the country was a part of the Soviet Union.

Why is Alexandra Lukashenko afraid of theatres in Belarus

Belarusian police said on Sunday they had used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse "disobedient" protesters in the eastern city of Gomel and prevent them from breaking through the rows of police, Russia`s TASS news agency reported.

Belarusians continue to protest across the country against what they say was a rigged presidential election last month, of which incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko was declared the outright winner.

Belarusian police said on Sunday they had used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse "disobedient" protesters in the eastern city of Gomel and prevent them from breaking through the rows of police, Russia`s TASS news agency reported.

Belarusian police said on Sunday they had used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse "disobedient" protesters in the eastern city of Gomel and prevent them from breaking through the rows of police, Russia`s TASS news agency reported. Belarusians continue to protest across the country against what they say was a rigged presidential election last month, of which incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko was declared the outright winner.

Belarusian police use tear gas, stun grenades against protesters: Report

French President Emmanuel Macron said that "It is a crisis of power, an authoritarian power that cannot accept the logic of democracy and which is hanging on by force. It is clear that Lukashenko has to go."

Emmanuel Macron: Lukashenko is using force to remain in power

French President Emmanuel Macron said Belarus’s leader Alexander Lukashenko has to step down, in comments to a French weekly published on Sunday.

“It’s clear he has to go,” he told the Journal du Dimanche, speaking days after the European Union refused to recognise Lukashenko as the country’s legitimate president.

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“It is a crisis of power, an authoritarian power that cannot accept the logic of democracy and which is hanging on by force. It is clear that Lukashenko has to go,” he said.

Tens of thousands of people have taken to the streets in Belarus since August 9 elections which opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya says she won, despite Lukashenko’s insistence he took a landslide victory.

The embattled leader has launched a brutal crackdown against the protesters -- drawing condemnation from the West, but support from Moscow.

He recently triggered new demonstrations and fresh Western criticism after holding a secret inauguration for himself.

Macron on Sunday said he had been “impressed by the courage of the protesters” in Belarus.

“They know the risks they are taking by demonstrating every weekend, and yet, they are pushing forward with the movement to make democracy come alive in this country that has been deprived of it for so long,” he said.

“Women in particular, who march every Saturday, command our respect,” he added.

More than 90 people -- most of them women -- were arrested on Saturday at opposition rallies, one NGO said.

The EU on Thursday said Lukashenko’s inauguration lacked “democratic legitimacy” and refused to recognise him as president.

Brussels is reviewing its relations with the country, the bloc’s diplomatic chief has said.

EU ministers decided in principle last month to impose sanctions against the regime, but Cyprus has been blocking approval until the bloc agrees similar measures against Turkey over gas exploration in the eastern Mediterranean.

On Friday, EU Baltic states Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia expanded their own sanctions against Belarus.

The issue will be debated during an EU summit on October 1-2 in Brussels.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Belarus’s leader Alexander Lukashenko has to step down, in comments to a French weekly published on Sunday. “It’s clear he has to go,” he told the Journal du Dimanche, speaking days after the European Union refused to recognise Lukashenko as the country’s legitimate president.

French President Emmanuel Macron said Belarus’s leader Alexander Lukashenko has to step down, in comments to a French weekly published on Sunday. “It’s clear he has to go,” he told the Journal du Dimanche, speaking days after the European Union refused to recognise Lukashenko as the country’s legitimate president. “It is a crisis of power, an authoritarian power that cannot accept the logic of democracy and which is hanging on by force. It is clear that Lukashenko has to go,” he said. Tens of thousands of people have taken to the streets in Belarus since August 9 elections which opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya says she won, despite Lukashenko’s insistence he took a landslide victory. The embattled leader has launched a brutal crackdown against the protesters -- drawing condemnation from the West, but support from Moscow. He recently triggered new demonstrations and fresh Western criticism after holding a secret inauguration for himself. Macron on Sunday said he had been “impressed by the courage of the protesters” in Belarus. “They know the risks they are taking by demonstrating every weekend, and yet, they are pushing forward with the movement to make democracy come alive in this country that has been deprived of it for so long,” he said. “Women in particular, who march every Saturday, command our respect,” he added. More than 90 people -- most of them women -- were arrested on Saturday at opposition rallies, one NGO said. The EU on Thursday said Lukashenko’s inauguration lacked “democratic legitimacy” and refused to recognise him as president. Brussels is reviewing its relations with the country, the bloc’s diplomatic chief has said. EU ministers decided in principle last month to impose sanctions against the regime, but Cyprus has been blocking approval until the bloc agrees similar measures against Turkey over gas exploration in the eastern Mediterranean. On Friday, EU Baltic states Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia expanded their own sanctions against Belarus. The issue will be debated during an EU summit on October 1-2 in Brussels.

‘It is clear Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko has to go’: France president Emmanuel Macron

Theatre director Natalia Kaliada says she was working under lockdown long before the coronavirus pandemic, forced to work at a distance with actors and others in her native Belarus after being driven into political exile in London nearly a decade ago.

Her ‘Belarus Free Theatre’, which has operated underground since dissident artists founded it in 2005, is marking its 15th anniversary just as Belarus is convulsed by protests against its veteran president, Alexander Lukashenko.

For Kaliada and her husband Nicolai Khalezin, also an artistic director, having to create and rehearse plays only online is nothing new.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-clear-belarus-leader-alexander-lukashenko-has-to-go-france-president-emmanuel-macron-330557">Also read|&nbsp;‘It is clear Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko has to go’: France president Emmanuel Macron</a>

“When coronavirus happened and lockdown started all over the world... it was a very interesting experience because suddenly all people, like from European theatres, they started to reach out to us and say, could you share how to rehearse online?” she told Reuters.ift

“We consider ourselves to be in lockdown for all the years of our existence (as a theatre)... We teach online, we rehearse online, we run conferences online. So, for us it wasn’t a new experience.”

She and Khalezin have long been directing via Skype powerful plays by contemporary dramatists which chronicle corruption and oppression in Belarus under Lukashenko, who has led the former Soviet republic for 26 years. He denies any wrongdoing.

Their actors are forced to perform the plays clandestinely in private apartments, garages, warehouses and forests and have sometimes been jailed following raids by the KGB secret police, including during the current protests over a presidential election in which Lukashenko was declared the winner.

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Best gift

Khalezin said he views the turmoil in Belarus as “the best gift we could get on our anniversary... (though) with a heavy price” as it allows for new performances and projects “directly linked to this new reality in which we currently live”.

However, the coronavirus pandemic has forced the couple to cancel plans this year to stage in London and the United States a new play “Dogs of War”, set in an authoritarian dystopia in the near future. They still hope to stage it at a later date.

That play, Kaliada said, is meant “as a warning shout to what might happen to democracy. And we say that Belarussians have been, for the last 26 years, living the possible future of Europe and America, if Europeans and Americans will not act in time to defend their rights”.

Western powers are preparing economic sanctions on Belarus following Lukashenko’s crackdown on the protesters, who accuse him of rigging the August 9 presidential election, a charge he denies. The protests have left him more reliant on his security forces, and on Russian backing, to stay in power.

Kaliada and Khalezin remain hopeful that Belarusians will soon be free to watch their theatre’s productions in public, not underground and in constant fear of the secret police.

“We will go back as soon as we have a victory. We are certain we will return and certain we will do something very important for Belarus,” said Khalezin.

Theatre director Natalia Kaliada says she was working under lockdown long before the coronavirus pandemic, forced to work at a distance with actors and others in her native Belarus after being driven into political exile in London nearly a decade ago.

Theatre director Natalia Kaliada says she was working under lockdown long before the coronavirus pandemic, forced to work at a distance with actors and others in her native Belarus after being driven into political exile in London nearly a decade ago. Her ‘Belarus Free Theatre’, which has operated underground since dissident artists founded it in 2005, is marking its 15th anniversary just as Belarus is convulsed by protests against its veteran president, Alexander Lukashenko. For Kaliada and her husband Nicolai Khalezin, also an artistic director, having to create and rehearse plays only online is nothing new. Also read| ‘It is clear Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko has to go’: France president Emmanuel Macron “When coronavirus happened and lockdown started all over the world... it was a very interesting experience because suddenly all people, like from European theatres, they started to reach out to us and say, could you share how to rehearse online?” she told Reuters.ift “We consider ourselves to be in lockdown for all the years of our existence (as a theatre)... We teach online, we rehearse online, we run conferences online. So, for us it wasn’t a new experience.” She and Khalezin have long been directing via Skype powerful plays by contemporary dramatists which chronicle corruption and oppression in Belarus under Lukashenko, who has led the former Soviet republic for 26 years. He denies any wrongdoing. Their actors are forced to perform the plays clandestinely in private apartments, garages, warehouses and forests and have sometimes been jailed following raids by the KGB secret police, including during the current protests over a presidential election in which Lukashenko was declared the winner. × Best gift Khalezin said he views the turmoil in Belarus as “the best gift we could get on our anniversary... (though) with a heavy price” as it allows for new performances and projects “directly linked to this new reality in which we currently live”. However, the coronavirus pandemic has forced the couple to cancel plans this year to stage in London and the United States a new play “Dogs of War”, set in an authoritarian dystopia in the near future. They still hope to stage it at a later date. That play, Kaliada said, is meant “as a warning shout to what might happen to democracy. And we say that Belarussians have been, for the last 26 years, living the possible future of Europe and America, if Europeans and Americans will not act in time to defend their rights”. Western powers are preparing economic sanctions on Belarus following Lukashenko’s crackdown on the protesters, who accuse him of rigging the August 9 presidential election, a charge he denies. The protests have left him more reliant on his security forces, and on Russian backing, to stay in power. Kaliada and Khalezin remain hopeful that Belarusians will soon be free to watch their theatre’s productions in public, not underground and in constant fear of the secret police. “We will go back as soon as we have a victory. We are certain we will return and certain we will do something very important for Belarus,” said Khalezin.

Belarusian theatre directors unbowed by coronavirus, political exile

The United States, Britain and Canada may impose sanctions on Belarus as early as Friday, four sources told Reuters, and the European Union told President Alexander Lukashenko it did not recognise him as the country’s legitimate leader.

Diplomatic pressure on Lukashenko mounted a day after he had himself sworn in for a sixth term at an inauguration ceremony that was kept secret until after it was completed.

British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said that following the “fraudulent” inauguration, British, U.S. and Canadian officials were working on sanctions against those responsible for “serious human rights violations”.

The four sources said the measures could come on Friday, though that might slip given the challenge of coordinating between the three countries.

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More than 12,000 people have been arrested, and hundreds remain in jail, since Lukashenko was declared the landslide winner of an Aug. 9 presidential election that the opposition denounced as rigged.

Mass protests have left him reliant on his security forces, and backing from his ally Russia, to maintain his 26-year grip on power in the former Soviet republic.

Canadian Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne said: “The inauguration is as illegitimate as the elections it follows.”

The European Union said the abrupt swearing-in on Wednesday went directly against the will of the people.

“The so-called ‘inauguration’ ... and the new mandate claimed by Aleksander Lukashenko lack any democratic legitimacy,” the EU’s 27 states said in a statement.

“This ‘inauguration’ directly contradicts the will of large parts of the Belarusian population, as expressed in numerous, unprecedented and peaceful protests since the elections, and serves to only further deepen the political crisis in Belarus.”

The EU, a large financial donor to Belarus, also said it was “reviewing its relations” with the country, meaning the bloc would seek to cut off direct funding to Lukashenko’s government, channelling it to aid groups and hospitals instead.

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Night of protests

Lukashenko brushed off the condemnation.

“We didn’t ask anyone to recognise our elections or not recognise them, to recognise the legitimacy of the newly elected president or not,” the news site Sputnik Belarus quoted him as saying.

The 66-year-old leader defended the manner of his swearing-in.

“You know about 2,000 people were invited to the inauguration, together with the military. And it is almost impossible to keep it secret,” he said.

The ceremony, a major state occasion that would normally be conducted with fanfare, took place without prior warning in an apparent attempt to prevent it being disrupted by protests.

Instead, it drew thousands onto the streets of the capital Minsk on Wednesday evening, where security forces chased down protesters and fired water cannon to disperse crowds.

Police detained 364 people, the Interior Ministry said.

A video showing a taxi driver rescuing a protester and speeding away from baton-wielding riot police went viral on social media.

Detained opposition politician Maria Kolesnikova urged protesters not to give up and mocked the security forces who arrested her, in a letter to her father that was shared by the Tut.By news portal.

“You must tell them not to give up, just keep going! These people who have kidnapped me are all incredibly weak and hysterical. They don’t even know how to do their job well,” the 38-year-old musician wrote.

Kolesnikova burnished her status as a hero to the protesters by ripping up her passport to avoid forced deportation to Ukraine earlier this month.

The United States, Britain and Canada may impose sanctions on Belarus as early as Friday, four sources told Reuters, and the European Union told President Alexander Lukashenko it did not recognise him as the country’s legitimate leader.

The United States, Britain and Canada may impose sanctions on Belarus as early as Friday, four sources told Reuters, and the European Union told President Alexander Lukashenko it did not recognise him as the country’s legitimate leader. Diplomatic pressure on Lukashenko mounted a day after he had himself sworn in for a sixth term at an inauguration ceremony that was kept secret until after it was completed. British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said that following the “fraudulent” inauguration, British, U.S. and Canadian officials were working on sanctions against those responsible for “serious human rights violations”. The four sources said the measures could come on Friday, though that might slip given the challenge of coordinating between the three countries. × More than 12,000 people have been arrested, and hundreds remain in jail, since Lukashenko was declared the landslide winner of an Aug. 9 presidential election that the opposition denounced as rigged. Mass protests have left him reliant on his security forces, and backing from his ally Russia, to maintain his 26-year grip on power in the former Soviet republic. Canadian Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne said: “The inauguration is as illegitimate as the elections it follows.” The European Union said the abrupt swearing-in on Wednesday went directly against the will of the people. “The so-called ‘inauguration’ ... and the new mandate claimed by Aleksander Lukashenko lack any democratic legitimacy,” the EU’s 27 states said in a statement. “This ‘inauguration’ directly contradicts the will of large parts of the Belarusian population, as expressed in numerous, unprecedented and peaceful protests since the elections, and serves to only further deepen the political crisis in Belarus.” The EU, a large financial donor to Belarus, also said it was “reviewing its relations” with the country, meaning the bloc would seek to cut off direct funding to Lukashenko’s government, channelling it to aid groups and hospitals instead. × Night of protests Lukashenko brushed off the condemnation. “We didn’t ask anyone to recognise our elections or not recognise them, to recognise the legitimacy of the newly elected president or not,” the news site Sputnik Belarus quoted him as saying. The 66-year-old leader defended the manner of his swearing-in. “You know about 2,000 people were invited to the inauguration, together with the military. And it is almost impossible to keep it secret,” he said. The ceremony, a major state occasion that would normally be conducted with fanfare, took place without prior warning in an apparent attempt to prevent it being disrupted by protests. Instead, it drew thousands onto the streets of the capital Minsk on Wednesday evening, where security forces chased down protesters and fired water cannon to disperse crowds. Police detained 364 people, the Interior Ministry said. A video showing a taxi driver rescuing a protester and speeding away from baton-wielding riot police went viral on social media. Detained opposition politician Maria Kolesnikova urged protesters not to give up and mocked the security forces who arrested her, in a letter to her father that was shared by the Tut.By news portal. “You must tell them not to give up, just keep going! These people who have kidnapped me are all incredibly weak and hysterical. They don’t even know how to do their job well,” the 38-year-old musician wrote. Kolesnikova burnished her status as a hero to the protesters by ripping up her passport to avoid forced deportation to Ukraine earlier this month.

Belarus faces imminent sanctions as pressure mounts on Lukashenko

The United States, Britain and Canada may impose sanctions on Belarus as early as Friday, four sources told Reuters, and the European Union told President Alexander Lukashenko it did not recognise him as the country's legitimate leader.

Belarus faces imminent sanctions as pressure mounts on President Lukashenko

The European Union said that President Alexander Lukashenko is not the legitimate president of Belarus, on Thursday. Saying his abrupt swearing-in on Wednesday went directly against the will of the people.

European Union: Lukashenko is not the legitimate Belarus president

President Alexander Lukashenko is not the legitimate president of Belarus, the European Union said on Thursday, saying his abrupt swearing-in on Wednesday went directly against the will of the people.

EU says Lukashenko is not legitimate Belarus president

Amidst nationwide protests against Belarus’ long-standing authoritarian President Alexander Lukashenko, the country’s beleaguered leader was sworn in for his sixth consecutive term in a sudden inauguration event on September 22.

Lukashenko sworn in at secret event: Lithuania, Germany condemn secret event | World News

Belarusian security forces began detaining people and fired water cannon to disperse crowds as thousands took to the streets of Minsk in protest against the abrupt inauguration of veteran President Alexander Lukashenko on Wednesday.

Ignoring calls for an end to his 26-year grip on power, Lukashenko was sworn in for a sixth term after an election that the opposition and several foreign governments say was rigged.

The ceremony would normally have been publicised as a major state occasion but was instead held without warning following Lukashenko's claim of a landslide victory in the Aug. 9 vote.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/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 ex-Soviet republic's opposition, which has staged more than six weeks of mass protests demanding his resignation, denounced the inauguration as illegitimate.

"His secret inauguration is an attempt to seize power," said Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Lukashenko's main opponent who fled into exile after the election.

The United States and European Union are drawing up sanctions against officials involved in the election and a subsequent crackdown on protesters by the security forces.

The official news agency Belta said Lukashenko placed his right hand on a copy of the constitution and swore the oath of office at a ceremony attended by several hundred people.

The 66-year-old leader said the country needed safety and consensus "on the brink of a global crisis", an apparent reference to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"I cannot, I have no right to abandon the Belarusians," he said.

Thousands of protesters marched through the streets carrying red-and-white opposition flags, as passing cars honked their horns in solidarity.

One placard read "if you have 80%, why are you afraid of us?" - alluding to Lukashenko's stated 80% vote share.

Several people were injured after water cannon were fired, the Russian news agency Interfax reported. More than 10 people had been taken into custody, RIA news agency said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/germany-denies-lukashenko-recognition-as-belarus-president-329683" hreflang="en">Germany denies Lukashenko recognition as Belarus president</a>

Protesters had begun gathering in small groups in the capital earlier in the day, including outside at least three universities, local media footage showed.

Some chanted "Sasha, come out, we'll congratulate you!" - referring to the diminutive form of Lukashenko's first name.

Rumours had swept Minsk that Lukashenko was preparing for a snap inauguration ceremony when a motorcade swept through the centre of the capital.

Another opposition politician, Pavel Latushko, said the swearing-in was like a secret "thieves' meeting".

"Where are the jubilant citizens? Where is the diplomatic corps?" he posted on social media. "It is obvious that Alexander Lukashenko is exclusively the president of the OMON (riot police) and a handful of lying officials."

Latushko called for "an indefinite action of civil disobedience".

"SUCH A FARCE"

Germany reiterated that it did not recognise Lukashenko as president and called for EU sanctions to be agreed as soon as possible.

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius said on Twitter: "Such a farce. Forget elections...His illegitimacy is a fact with all the consequences that this entails."

Lukashenko, taking the oath for a new five-year term, promised to "faithfully serve the people of the Republic of Belarus, respect and protect the rights and freedoms of the person and of the citizen" and defend the constitution.

He has so far withstood the protests with backing from his ally, President Vladimir Putin of Russia.

Despite its population of only 9.5 million, Belarus matters to Russia as a buffer state against NATO and a conduit for Russian exports of oil and gas.

At a summit last week, Putin granted Lukashenko a $1.5 billion loan, and the two countries are holding "Slavic Brotherhood" defence exercises in Belarus.

As part of those drills, Russian paratroopers parachuted into Belarus on Wednesday.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the swearing-in was "absolutely the sovereign decision of the Belarusian leadership". Asked if Putin was invited, he said it looked as though the presence of foreign leaders had not been envisaged.

Belarusian security forces began detaining people and fired water cannon to disperse crowds as thousands took to the streets of Minsk in protest against the abrupt inauguration of veteran President Alexander Lukashenko on Wednesday.

Belarusian security forces began detaining people and fired water cannon to disperse crowds as thousands took to the streets of Minsk in protest against the abrupt inauguration of veteran President Alexander Lukashenko on Wednesday. Ignoring calls for an end to his 26-year grip on power, Lukashenko was sworn in for a sixth term after an election that the opposition and several foreign governments say was rigged. The ceremony would normally have been publicised as a major state occasion but was instead held without warning following Lukashenko's claim of a landslide victory in the Aug. 9 vote. Also read: Lukashenko secretly sworn in for new presidential term in Belarus: Report The ex-Soviet republic's opposition, which has staged more than six weeks of mass protests demanding his resignation, denounced the inauguration as illegitimate. "His secret inauguration is an attempt to seize power," said Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, Lukashenko's main opponent who fled into exile after the election. The United States and European Union are drawing up sanctions against officials involved in the election and a subsequent crackdown on protesters by the security forces. The official news agency Belta said Lukashenko placed his right hand on a copy of the constitution and swore the oath of office at a ceremony attended by several hundred people. The 66-year-old leader said the country needed safety and consensus "on the brink of a global crisis", an apparent reference to the COVID-19 pandemic. "I cannot, I have no right to abandon the Belarusians," he said. Thousands of protesters marched through the streets carrying red-and-white opposition flags, as passing cars honked their horns in solidarity. One placard read "if you have 80%, why are you afraid of us?" - alluding to Lukashenko's stated 80% vote share. Several people were injured after water cannon were fired, the Russian news agency Interfax reported. More than 10 people had been taken into custody, RIA news agency said. Also read: Germany denies Lukashenko recognition as Belarus president Protesters had begun gathering in small groups in the capital earlier in the day, including outside at least three universities, local media footage showed. Some chanted "Sasha, come out, we'll congratulate you!" - referring to the diminutive form of Lukashenko's first name. Rumours had swept Minsk that Lukashenko was preparing for a snap inauguration ceremony when a motorcade swept through the centre of the capital. Another opposition politician, Pavel Latushko, said the swearing-in was like a secret "thieves' meeting". "Where are the jubilant citizens? Where is the diplomatic corps?" he posted on social media. "It is obvious that Alexander Lukashenko is exclusively the president of the OMON (riot police) and a handful of lying officials." Latushko called for "an indefinite action of civil disobedience". "SUCH A FARCE" Germany reiterated that it did not recognise Lukashenko as president and called for EU sanctions to be agreed as soon as possible. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius said on Twitter: "Such a farce. Forget elections...His illegitimacy is a fact with all the consequences that this entails." Lukashenko, taking the oath for a new five-year term, promised to "faithfully serve the people of the Republic of Belarus, respect and protect the rights and freedoms of the person and of the citizen" and defend the constitution. He has so far withstood the protests with backing from his ally, President Vladimir Putin of Russia. Despite its population of only 9.5 million, Belarus matters to Russia as a buffer state against NATO and a conduit for Russian exports of oil and gas. At a summit last week, Putin granted Lukashenko a $1.5 billion loan, and the two countries are holding "Slavic Brotherhood" defence exercises in Belarus. As part of those drills, Russian paratroopers parachuted into Belarus on Wednesday. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the swearing-in was "absolutely the sovereign decision of the Belarusian leadership". Asked if Putin was invited, he said it looked as though the presence of foreign leaders had not been envisaged.

Thousands protest in Minsk after Belarusian leader Lukashenko hastily sworn-in

Belarus Opposition Leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya has urged the European Union to step up pressure on Alexander Lukashenko. Will the EU sanction Belarus?

Gravitas: Belarus faces sanctions threat from European Union

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.

Many walked in a vast column that stretched back several kilometres, decked out in red-and-white opposition colours and chanting "go away" as helmeted riot police patrolled the streets with water canons on hand, a witness said.

Several protesters were dragged away from the crowd by security forces. In the city centre, riot police rhythmically beat their shields as a warning while several people threw glass bottles at them.

Videos shared by local media outlets showed security forces in helmets or masks hauling protesters off the streets in simultaneous protests in other cities.

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.

In power for 26 years, the former Soviet collective farm manager has shown scant inclination to resign, buoyed by support from Russia.

The European Union vowed weeks ago to impose sanctions on Minsk for alleged election fraud and human rights abuses, but is likely to miss its own Monday deadline for action.

POLICE DATA LEAKED

In tandem with the protests, anonymous hackers leaked the personal data of more than 2,000 police officers in retaliation for a crackdown in which thousands of people have been detained, many complaining of beatings and torture in jail.

The government has denied abusing detainees.

The loyalty of the security forces is crucial to Lukashenko`s ability to cling on to power. Their faces are often obscured by masks, balaclavas or riot helmets. Some protesters have torn the masks off some officers.

"As the arrests continue, we will continue to publish data on a massive scale," said a statement distributed by the opposition news channel Nexta Live on the messaging app Telegram. "No one will remain anonymous even under a balaclava."

The first batch of 1,000 names was released on Saturday and widely distributed on Telegram channels.

The second batch of more than 1,000 names was released on Sunday evening, targeting officers in the western city of Brest where the hackers said the police had been particularly heavy-handed.

The government said it would find and punish those responsible for leaking the data.

"The forces, means and technologies at the disposal of the internal affairs bodies make it possible to identify and prosecute the overwhelming majority of those guilty of leaking personal data on the Internet," said Olga Chemodanova, the spokeswoman for the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

STRATEGIC BUFFER

At least 196 people were detained across the country on Sunday, the human rights group Spring-96 said.

The Russian news agency TASS said at least ten people had been held, citing police. The government typically releases the final figures the following day.

Footage shared by Belarusian media outlets showed police dragging people from the front of a column of protesters who had linked arms in Brest, and firing spray from a bottle into the face of one of them. One security officer fired a warning shot into the air in a separate incident.

"They sprayed gas in the face of peaceful people, fired into the air, showed particular cruelty," a second statement by the hackers said.

"We warned that you will definitely have to answer for crimes against Belarusians. We add to the existing database a list of more than 1,000 ghouls from Brest and the Brest region."

Metro stations were closed in central Minsk and the mobile internet disrupted for several hours.

The government said 390 women were detained for taking part in a protest on Saturday. Most have been released.

Russia sees Belarus as a strategic buffer state against the EU and NATO, and has accused the United States of fomenting revolution in its neighbour.

Moscow agreed to give a $1.5 billion loan to prop up Lukashenko`s government following a meeting between him and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Belarus will channel about $330 million of its new loan to cover its outstanding debt to Russian gas giant Gazprom , Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov was quoted by TASS as saying.

 
&nbsp;

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.

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. Many walked in a vast column that stretched back several kilometres, decked out in red-and-white opposition colours and chanting "go away" as helmeted riot police patrolled the streets with water canons on hand, a witness said. Several protesters were dragged away from the crowd by security forces. In the city centre, riot police rhythmically beat their shields as a warning while several people threw glass bottles at them. Videos shared by local media outlets showed security forces in helmets or masks hauling protesters off the streets in simultaneous protests in other cities. 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. In power for 26 years, the former Soviet collective farm manager has shown scant inclination to resign, buoyed by support from Russia. The European Union vowed weeks ago to impose sanctions on Minsk for alleged election fraud and human rights abuses, but is likely to miss its own Monday deadline for action. POLICE DATA LEAKED In tandem with the protests, anonymous hackers leaked the personal data of more than 2,000 police officers in retaliation for a crackdown in which thousands of people have been detained, many complaining of beatings and torture in jail. The government has denied abusing detainees. The loyalty of the security forces is crucial to Lukashenko`s ability to cling on to power. Their faces are often obscured by masks, balaclavas or riot helmets. Some protesters have torn the masks off some officers. "As the arrests continue, we will continue to publish data on a massive scale," said a statement distributed by the opposition news channel Nexta Live on the messaging app Telegram. "No one will remain anonymous even under a balaclava." The first batch of 1,000 names was released on Saturday and widely distributed on Telegram channels. The second batch of more than 1,000 names was released on Sunday evening, targeting officers in the western city of Brest where the hackers said the police had been particularly heavy-handed. The government said it would find and punish those responsible for leaking the data. "The forces, means and technologies at the disposal of the internal affairs bodies make it possible to identify and prosecute the overwhelming majority of those guilty of leaking personal data on the Internet," said Olga Chemodanova, the spokeswoman for the Ministry of Internal Affairs. STRATEGIC BUFFER At least 196 people were detained across the country on Sunday, the human rights group Spring-96 said. The Russian news agency TASS said at least ten people had been held, citing police. The government typically releases the final figures the following day. Footage shared by Belarusian media outlets showed police dragging people from the front of a column of protesters who had linked arms in Brest, and firing spray from a bottle into the face of one of them. One security officer fired a warning shot into the air in a separate incident. "They sprayed gas in the face of peaceful people, fired into the air, showed particular cruelty," a second statement by the hackers said. "We warned that you will definitely have to answer for crimes against Belarusians. We add to the existing database a list of more than 1,000 ghouls from Brest and the Brest region." Metro stations were closed in central Minsk and the mobile internet disrupted for several hours. The government said 390 women were detained for taking part in a protest on Saturday. Most have been released. Russia sees Belarus as a strategic buffer state against the EU and NATO, and has accused the United States of fomenting revolution in its neighbour. Moscow agreed to give a $1.5 billion loan to prop up Lukashenko`s government following a meeting between him and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Belarus will channel about $330 million of its new loan to cover its outstanding debt to Russian gas giant Gazprom , Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov was quoted by TASS as saying.

Mass rallies and police data leaks in Belarus keep pressure on Lukashenko

Russia&nbsp;on Monday&nbsp;kicked off its large-scale week-long Caucasus 2020 (Kavkaz 2020) military exercises along with&nbsp;China, Belarus, Pakistan and several other countries.

The military exercises in&nbsp;Kavkaz this year&nbsp;are expected to focus on combating cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles, the&nbsp;Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Footage?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Footage</a> The foreign military taking part in the on-coming <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kavkaz2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kavkaz2020</a> strategic command &amp; control exercise are about to finish their relocation to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SouthernMD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SouthernMD</a> of Russia. Upon arrival, everyone of them takes mandatory <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> tests <a href="https://t.co/SPca0aTwrC">https://t.co/SPca0aTwrC</a> <a href="https://t.co/pQjMhqjMpn">pic.twitter.com/pQjMhqjMpn</a>
— Минобороны России (@mod_russia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mod_russia/status/1306236639509962753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The drills, led by Chief of the General Staff Army General Valery Gerasimov, will take place at several firing ranges and airfields in southern&nbsp;Russia.

The navy part of the drills in both the Black Sea and Caspian Sea will be joined by the Iranian navy, the ministry said.

The defence ministry also said that the exercises will involve around 1,000 military personnel from Armenia, Belarus, China, Myanmar and Pakistan. The exercises will be observed by representatives of Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Sri-Lanka.

Russia&nbsp;said the drills will involve around 80,000 personnel including&nbsp;Russian missile defence and navy units, as well as officers of the&nbsp;Russian Emergencies Ministry and the&nbsp;Russian Guard.

According to the ministry, the drills will also feature up to 250 tanks, 450 military personnel carriers and 200 artillery systems.

Russia on Monday kicked off its large-scale week-long Caucasus 2020 (Kavkaz 2020) military exercises along with China, Belarus, Pakistan and several other countries.

Russia on Monday kicked off its large-scale week-long Caucasus 2020 (Kavkaz 2020) military exercises along with China, Belarus, Pakistan and several other countries. The military exercises in Kavkaz this year are expected to focus on combating cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement. #Footage The foreign military taking part in the on-coming #Kavkaz2020 strategic command & control exercise are about to finish their relocation to the #SouthernMD of Russia. Upon arrival, everyone of them takes mandatory #COVID19 tests https://t.co/SPca0aTwrC pic.twitter.com/pQjMhqjMpn — Минобороны России (@mod_russia) September 16, 2020 × The drills, led by Chief of the General Staff Army General Valery Gerasimov, will take place at several firing ranges and airfields in southern Russia. The navy part of the drills in both the Black Sea and Caspian Sea will be joined by the Iranian navy, the ministry said. The defence ministry also said that the exercises will involve around 1,000 military personnel from Armenia, Belarus, China, Myanmar and Pakistan. The exercises will be observed by representatives of Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Sri-Lanka. Russia said the drills will involve around 80,000 personnel including Russian missile defence and navy units, as well as officers of the Russian Emergencies Ministry and the Russian Guard. According to the ministry, the drills will also feature up to 250 tanks, 450 military personnel carriers and 200 artillery systems.

Kavkaz 2020: Russia hosts military drills in south with China, Belarus, Pakistan

European foreign ministers welcomed Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya to Brussels on Monday as they prepare EU sanctions to support her battle against the Minsk regime.

Belarus' oppn candidate meets with EU leaders

Demonstrations in Belarus continue against President Alexander Lukashenko.A 73-year-old woman has now taken centre stage in the path of this protest. Her name is Nina Baginskaya. Facing regular detaintion by the police she is marching in support with the opposition.

Belarus protest: 73-year-old woman takes centre stage

Belarusian authorities on Sunday brought military trucks and barbed wire to thwart a planned protest by those opposing Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko's regime.

Latest opposition protests were scheduled to take place at 1100 GMT (4:30 pm IST). As the hour&nbsp;drew closer, military trucks were moved by the authorities to central Minsk. The development was reported by opposition websites that posted videos and photos of convoy of trucks being mobilised towards central Minsk.

The latest protests were planned after riot police cracked down on a march taken out by women protesters on Saturday.

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, had 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.

Riot police cracked down on the protesters. 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.

Belarusian authorities on Sunday brought military trucks and barbed wire to thwart a planned protest by those opposing Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko's regime.

Belarusian authorities on Sunday brought military trucks and barbed wire to thwart a planned protest by those opposing Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko's regime. Latest opposition protests were scheduled to take place at 1100 GMT (4:30 pm IST). As the hour drew closer, military trucks were moved by the authorities to central Minsk. The development was reported by opposition websites that posted videos and photos of convoy of trucks being mobilised towards central Minsk. The latest protests were planned after riot police cracked down on a march taken out by women protesters on Saturday. 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, had 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. Riot police cracked down on the protesters. 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.

Belarusian authorities bring military trucks to thwart planned protest

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

United Nation’s Human Rights Commission condemns violation in Belarus calling out unlawful arrests, torture and sexual violence. Watch video.

Video: New iron curtain falling across the Europe?

Referring to the human rights violation in Belarus, a UN investigator has warned about another "iron curtain" falling in Europe if the situation doesn't get better in Belarus.

"Let's not allow another iron curtain to descend on the European continent," said Anaïs Marin, UN special rapporteur on the human rights situation in Belarus.

The statement was issued in an urgent debate that was called in the UN by Germany on&nbsp;behalf of the European Union (EU) to discuss the&nbsp;"catastrophic" conditions in Belarus.

As&nbsp;Anaïs Marin described the tortures and violent behaviour portrayed by the Belrusian government, delegates of Russia and Belrus made several attempts of objecting her speech.

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The United Nations, however, has now agreed to step up monitoring of reported rights abuses during Belarus handling of protests that were held against the&nbsp;President Alexander Lukashenko who has been in power since 1994 and denies accusations of rigging elections that were held on August 09.

The protests were attended by masses and were spread all across the country for several weeks. The government has been accused of violently beating the protestors and holding them in jail in inhumane conditions without any charges.

“We demand to immediately cease violence against peaceful citizens. We demand immediate release of all political prisoners,”&nbsp;Belarus opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya requested in front of the&nbsp;47-member state forum.&nbsp;“I once again emphasize our willingness to talk with the authorities and look for peaceful solution to the crisis that has affected our nation."

Referring to the human rights violation in Belarus, a UN investigator has warned about another "iron curtain" falling in Europe if the situation doesn't get better in Belarus.

Referring to the human rights violation in Belarus, a UN investigator has warned about another "iron curtain" falling in Europe if the situation doesn't get better in Belarus. "Let's not allow another iron curtain to descend on the European continent," said Anaïs Marin, UN special rapporteur on the human rights situation in Belarus. The statement was issued in an urgent debate that was called in the UN by Germany on behalf of the European Union (EU) to discuss the "catastrophic" conditions in Belarus. As Anaïs Marin described the tortures and violent behaviour portrayed by the Belrusian government, delegates of Russia and Belrus made several attempts of objecting her speech. × The United Nations, however, has now agreed to step up monitoring of reported rights abuses during Belarus handling of protests that were held against the President Alexander Lukashenko who has been in power since 1994 and denies accusations of rigging elections that were held on August 09. The protests were attended by masses and were spread all across the country for several weeks. The government has been accused of violently beating the protestors and holding them in jail in inhumane conditions without any charges. “We demand to immediately cease violence against peaceful citizens. We demand immediate release of all political prisoners,” Belarus opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya requested in front of the 47-member state forum. “I once again emphasize our willingness to talk with the authorities and look for peaceful solution to the crisis that has affected our nation."

'Don't let iron curtain fall': Opposition warns against human rights violation in Belarus

Protests began after the Aug. 9 presidential election that official results say gave the authoritarian leader a sixth term in office

Belarus president closes western borders, puts army on high alert

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said on Thursday that Belarus needs to close its borders with Poland and Lithuania, and strengthen border controls with Ukraine.

Belarus has been in a political crisis following an August 9 presidential election marred by vote-rigging allegations that led to mass demonstrations against Lukashenko.&nbsp;

Lukashenko says he won re-election fairly and is the victim of a smear campaign by the West.

“We are compelled to withdraw our troops from the streets, have half our army on guard and close our state border with the West, first of all with Lithuania and Poland,” Lukashenko said in a speech at a women’s forum in Minsk.&nbsp;

“To our greatest regret, we are compelled to strengthen our border with brotherly Ukraine.”

Lukashenko’s announcement comes as the United States and a slew of European countries have stepped up scrutiny of Belarus over alleged irregularities in the country’s August election and repression of protests since.

To this end, Polish deputy foreign minister Pawel Jablonski told Reuters by text message: “We take this as another element of the propaganda campaign, a psychological game which aims to create a sense of an external threat.”

Lithuanian border guard chief Rustamas Liubajevas said the border there was also operating as usual.

Meanwhile, Denmark said on Thursday that seventeen members of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) have appointed an independent team of experts to investigate alleged rights violations in the August presidential election.

The mission is expected to publish a report within six to eight weeks.

It will investigate reports of persecution of candidates, journalists and activists as well as excessive use of force against peaceful protesters, illegal detention and torture.

Speaking on a visit to Washington, British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said he believed the game plan of Lukashenko and his main backer, Russian President Vladimir Putin, was to “try to sit this out”.

Minsk prevented the deployment of OSCE election observers by not inviting them, and has ignored repeated offers by the OSCE chairman, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, to visit.

The OSCE members behind the mission are Denmark, Belgium, Canada, Estonia, Finland, France, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Britain, the Czech Republic and the United States. 
&nbsp;

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said on Thursday that Belarus needs to close its borders with Poland and Lithuania, and strengthen border controls with Ukraine.

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said on Thursday that Belarus needs to close its borders with Poland and Lithuania, and strengthen border controls with Ukraine. Belarus has been in a political crisis following an August 9 presidential election marred by vote-rigging allegations that led to mass demonstrations against Lukashenko. Lukashenko says he won re-election fairly and is the victim of a smear campaign by the West. “We are compelled to withdraw our troops from the streets, have half our army on guard and close our state border with the West, first of all with Lithuania and Poland,” Lukashenko said in a speech at a women’s forum in Minsk. “To our greatest regret, we are compelled to strengthen our border with brotherly Ukraine.” Lukashenko’s announcement comes as the United States and a slew of European countries have stepped up scrutiny of Belarus over alleged irregularities in the country’s August election and repression of protests since. To this end, Polish deputy foreign minister Pawel Jablonski told Reuters by text message: “We take this as another element of the propaganda campaign, a psychological game which aims to create a sense of an external threat.” Lithuanian border guard chief Rustamas Liubajevas said the border there was also operating as usual. Meanwhile, Denmark said on Thursday that seventeen members of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) have appointed an independent team of experts to investigate alleged rights violations in the August presidential election. The mission is expected to publish a report within six to eight weeks. It will investigate reports of persecution of candidates, journalists and activists as well as excessive use of force against peaceful protesters, illegal detention and torture. Speaking on a visit to Washington, British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said he believed the game plan of Lukashenko and his main backer, Russian President Vladimir Putin, was to “try to sit this out”. Minsk prevented the deployment of OSCE election observers by not inviting them, and has ignored repeated offers by the OSCE chairman, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, to visit. The OSCE members behind the mission are Denmark, Belgium, Canada, Estonia, Finland, France, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Britain, the Czech Republic and the United States.

Belarus to close borders with Poland and Lithuania

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya is due to speak via video message Friday to a UN Human Rights Council debate on allegations of torture and other serious violations in her country.

Tikhanovskaya figures alongside UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet and other speakers lined up for a rare urgent debate before the council, set to focus on violations in Belarus and in particular the crackdown on protests over the disputed re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko.

Unprecedented demonstrations broke out in Belarus after Lukashenko claimed to have defeated Tikhanovskaya with 80 percent of the vote on August 9.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-dont-recognise-lukashenko-as-legitimate-president-european-union-328038">Also read|&nbsp;We don't recognise Lukashenko as legitimate president: European Union</a>

Lukashenko, who has ruled the ex-Soviet state for 26 years, has refused to step down and has turned to neighbouring Russia for support to remain in power.

His security forces have detained thousands of protesters, many of whom have accused police of beatings and torture. Several people have died in the crackdown.

'Independent investigation'

The European Union, which had requested the urgent debate, has tabled a draft resolution expressing serious concern over "credible allegations of human rights violations that have taken place in Belarus in the run up to the 2020 presidential election and its aftermath."

It points in particular to numerous allegations of "torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment by law enforcement and prison officers, including in prisons and detention centres, which urgently require an independent investigation."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-women-march-was-not-funded-from-abroad-says-opposition-327212">Also read|&nbsp;Belarus women march was not funded from abroad, says Opposition</a>

It also expresses concern over widespread attacks, harassment and intimidation targeting the political opposition, rights defenders and journalists, and attacks on the media through the revocation of foreign media accreditations and with internet shutdowns.

The draft text calls on Belarusian authorities to "enable independent, transparent and impartial investigations into all allegations of human rights violations in the context of the election," and "to guarantee access to justice and redress for victims as well as full accountability of the perpetrators."

And it calls on the office of UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet to closely monitor the situation in the country and to present her conclusions in a report during the next council session in March 2021.

<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/thousands-of-women-protest-in-belarus-demanding-lukashenkos-resignation-327120">Also read|&nbsp;Thousands of women protest in Belarus demanding Lukashenko's resignation</a>

Bachelet has condemned the alleged torture or ill-treatment, including of children, by the authorities in their response to the demonstrations in Belarus.

The decision to hold the debate was reached with the backing of 25 of the council's 47 members and with only two countries, Venezuela and the Philippines, flat-out opposing.

But despite the strong support, the discussion will likely be lengthy after Russia -- Lukashenko's main ally -- proposed over 20 amendments to the EU draft resolution.&nbsp;

Discussions on Friday will mark only the sixth time in the council's 14-year history that it has agreed to hold an "urgent debate", which is a special debate agreed upon within a regular session of the council.

During its last session in June, the council held an urgent debate over racism and police brutality following unrest in the United States and beyond over George Floyd's death.

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya is due to speak via video message Friday to a UN Human Rights Council debate on allegations of torture and other serious violations in her country.

Belarus opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya is due to speak via video message Friday to a UN Human Rights Council debate on allegations of torture and other serious violations in her country. Tikhanovskaya figures alongside UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet and other speakers lined up for a rare urgent debate before the council, set to focus on violations in Belarus and in particular the crackdown on protests over the disputed re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko. Unprecedented demonstrations broke out in Belarus after Lukashenko claimed to have defeated Tikhanovskaya with 80 percent of the vote on August 9. Also read| We don't recognise Lukashenko as legitimate president: European Union Lukashenko, who has ruled the ex-Soviet state for 26 years, has refused to step down and has turned to neighbouring Russia for support to remain in power. His security forces have detained thousands of protesters, many of whom have accused police of beatings and torture. Several people have died in the crackdown. 'Independent investigation' The European Union, which had requested the urgent debate, has tabled a draft resolution expressing serious concern over "credible allegations of human rights violations that have taken place in Belarus in the run up to the 2020 presidential election and its aftermath." It points in particular to numerous allegations of "torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment by law enforcement and prison officers, including in prisons and detention centres, which urgently require an independent investigation." Also read| Belarus women march was not funded from abroad, says Opposition It also expresses concern over widespread attacks, harassment and intimidation targeting the political opposition, rights defenders and journalists, and attacks on the media through the revocation of foreign media accreditations and with internet shutdowns. The draft text calls on Belarusian authorities to "enable independent, transparent and impartial investigations into all allegations of human rights violations in the context of the election," and "to guarantee access to justice and redress for victims as well as full accountability of the perpetrators." And it calls on the office of UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet to closely monitor the situation in the country and to present her conclusions in a report during the next council session in March 2021. Also read| Thousands of women protest in Belarus demanding Lukashenko's resignation Bachelet has condemned the alleged torture or ill-treatment, including of children, by the authorities in their response to the demonstrations in Belarus. The decision to hold the debate was reached with the backing of 25 of the council's 47 members and with only two countries, Venezuela and the Philippines, flat-out opposing. But despite the strong support, the discussion will likely be lengthy after Russia -- Lukashenko's main ally -- proposed over 20 amendments to the EU draft resolution. Discussions on Friday will mark only the sixth time in the council's 14-year history that it has agreed to hold an "urgent debate", which is a special debate agreed upon within a regular session of the council. During its last session in June, the council held an urgent debate over racism and police brutality following unrest in the United States and beyond over George Floyd's death.

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