Thousands of opposition supporters marched through the streets of Minsk on the 66th birthday of President Alexander Lukashenko. Calling for an end to Lukashenko's rule amid a heavy security presence and despite dozens of arrests.

Vladimir Putin agrees to meet Belarus President Lukashenko soon

Belarus has been rocked by large-scale protests against President Alexander Lukashenko since the August 9 election,

WION Fineprint: UN Security Council to hold informal meeting on Belarus

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Morning news brief: Trump accused of stoking violence, tanks seen in Minsk and more

Belarusians chanted "Happy Birthday, you rat" and flew red-and-white opposition flags as they gathered near President Alexander Lukashenko 's residence on Sunday.

The president, in office for 26 years, has shown no inclination to step down despite protesters keeping up pressure on him to resign.

For the second weekend in a row he appeared in a black cap and carrying an automatic rifle while walking around his residence, according to a photo published by Russia 's RIA news agency.

Lukashenko, who turned 66 on Sunday, is struggling to contain weeks of protests and strikes since winning an August 9 election his opponents say was rigged. He denies electoral fraud and has said the protesters, whom he previously called "rats", are backed from abroad.

Russian President Vladimir Putin used a birthday phone call to invite Lukashenko to visit Moscow, a sign of the Kremlin 's willingness to back Lukashenko as he grapples with the unrest and the threat of new Western sanctions.

Tens of thousands of protesters streamed into central Minsk, carrying balloons, flowers and flags, in the afternoon. Belarus had a white-red-white flag for a brief period in the early 1990s and it has become a symbol of its anti-government protests.

Passing cars honked their horns in solidarity. Some women lay down in protest in front of a cordon of helmeted security forces.

Protesters then converged on Lukashenko 's residence, which was guarded by a wall of security forces carrying shields. A column of armoured military vehicles was seen driving towards the city centre.

Police made sporadic detentions throughout the day, bundling people into prisoner vans. At least 140 people were detained, the interior ministry said, according to RIA. Some protesters resisted arrest by what appeared to be plain-clothes officers, an eyewitness said.

Earlier on Sunday, video footage shared by local media showed women dressed in traditional dress laying several pumpkins in front of the main government building, a folk custom intended to signal the rejection of a suitor.

In a holiday atmosphere, the protesters occasionally sang songs. At one point, a man draped in a flag got down on one knee and made a marriage proposal to a woman who accepted with a hug and a kiss as bystanders cheered.

An aide to the president, Nikolai Latyshenok, ruled out holding talks with the opposition and said that, in his personal opinion, only around 20-30% of Belarusian society was against the president, Russian news agencies reported.

"It has been said many times, let 's decide everything peacefully," TASS cited him as saying. 
One of the country 's largest mobile operators, A1, said it had reduced the capacity of mobile internet bandwidth at the government 's request.

Belarus, meanwhile, is Russia 's closest ex-Soviet ally and its territory is an integral part of Moscow 's European defence strategy. Nevertheless, Lukashenko is seen in Moscow as a prickly partner.

In the biggest sign yet of Russia 's willingness to intervene to prop up Lukashenko, Putin said on Thursday the Kremlin had set up a "reserve police force" at Lukashenko 's request, although it would be deployed only if necessary.

"It was agreed to hold a meeting in Moscow in the coming weeks," the Kremlin said in a statement after the leaders ' call on Sunday.

The European Union is gearing up to impose new sanctions on Belarus. Lukashenko threatened on Friday to cut off European transit routes across his country in retaliation.

A onetime manager of a Soviet collective farm, Lukashenko has faced a wave of unrest including from sections of society normally seen as loyal, such as journalists from the tightly-controlled state media who quit and a sitting ambassador, who also resigned.

Hundreds of athletes, including Olympic medallists, published a demand for new elections in a sports website.

Belarusians chanted "Happy Birthday, you rat" and flew red-and-white opposition flags as they gathered near President Alexander Lukashenko 's residence on Sunday.

Belarusians chanted "Happy Birthday, you rat" and flew red-and-white opposition flags as they gathered near President Alexander Lukashenko 's residence on Sunday. The president, in office for 26 years, has shown no inclination to step down despite protesters keeping up pressure on him to resign. For the second weekend in a row he appeared in a black cap and carrying an automatic rifle while walking around his residence, according to a photo published by Russia 's RIA news agency. Lukashenko, who turned 66 on Sunday, is struggling to contain weeks of protests and strikes since winning an August 9 election his opponents say was rigged. He denies electoral fraud and has said the protesters, whom he previously called "rats", are backed from abroad. Russian President Vladimir Putin used a birthday phone call to invite Lukashenko to visit Moscow, a sign of the Kremlin 's willingness to back Lukashenko as he grapples with the unrest and the threat of new Western sanctions. Tens of thousands of protesters streamed into central Minsk, carrying balloons, flowers and flags, in the afternoon. Belarus had a white-red-white flag for a brief period in the early 1990s and it has become a symbol of its anti-government protests. Passing cars honked their horns in solidarity. Some women lay down in protest in front of a cordon of helmeted security forces. Protesters then converged on Lukashenko 's residence, which was guarded by a wall of security forces carrying shields. A column of armoured military vehicles was seen driving towards the city centre. Police made sporadic detentions throughout the day, bundling people into prisoner vans. At least 140 people were detained, the interior ministry said, according to RIA. Some protesters resisted arrest by what appeared to be plain-clothes officers, an eyewitness said. Earlier on Sunday, video footage shared by local media showed women dressed in traditional dress laying several pumpkins in front of the main government building, a folk custom intended to signal the rejection of a suitor. In a holiday atmosphere, the protesters occasionally sang songs. At one point, a man draped in a flag got down on one knee and made a marriage proposal to a woman who accepted with a hug and a kiss as bystanders cheered. An aide to the president, Nikolai Latyshenok, ruled out holding talks with the opposition and said that, in his personal opinion, only around 20-30% of Belarusian society was against the president, Russian news agencies reported. "It has been said many times, let 's decide everything peacefully," TASS cited him as saying. One of the country 's largest mobile operators, A1, said it had reduced the capacity of mobile internet bandwidth at the government 's request. Belarus, meanwhile, is Russia 's closest ex-Soviet ally and its territory is an integral part of Moscow 's European defence strategy. Nevertheless, Lukashenko is seen in Moscow as a prickly partner. In the biggest sign yet of Russia 's willingness to intervene to prop up Lukashenko, Putin said on Thursday the Kremlin had set up a "reserve police force" at Lukashenko 's request, although it would be deployed only if necessary. "It was agreed to hold a meeting in Moscow in the coming weeks," the Kremlin said in a statement after the leaders ' call on Sunday. The European Union is gearing up to impose new sanctions on Belarus. Lukashenko threatened on Friday to cut off European transit routes across his country in retaliation. A onetime manager of a Soviet collective farm, Lukashenko has faced a wave of unrest including from sections of society normally seen as loyal, such as journalists from the tightly-controlled state media who quit and a sitting ambassador, who also resigned. Hundreds of athletes, including Olympic medallists, published a demand for new elections in a sports website.

Lukashenko gets birthday call from Putin, as tanks are seen in Minsk amid protests

Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia imposed travel bans on President Alexander Lukashenko and 29 other Belarusian officials on Monday, jumping into action to impose sanctions before the rest of the EU.&nbsp;

The three Baltic states have led calls for the West to take firmer action against Lukashenko, who is accused by opponents and the West of rigging an election to prolong his 26-year rule.

The sanctions are aimed at officials the three Baltic states accuse of vote rigging and playing a role in violence against protesters since the Aug. 9 election. Lukashenko's inclusion in the lists sends a message to other European countries which have been reluctant to back measures against him personally.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/lukashenko-gets-birthday-call-from-putin-as-tanks-are-seen-in-minsk-amid-protests-324152" hreflang="en">Lukashenko gets birthday call from Putin, as tanks are seen in Minsk amid protests</a>

Lukashenko, an ally of Moscow, denies electoral fraud and has said the protesters are backed from abroad.

"We said that we need peaceful dialogue and agreement between the regime and society, but we see that the regime is not ready for that," Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said. "We see that we need to move forward and to show an example to other countries."

The European Union has been working on its own list of individuals in Belarus to target with similar sanctions, but Western countries have mostly been cautious, wary of provoking an intervention from Russia.

The three small Baltic states are in the EU and Lithuania and Latvia border Belarus. Lithuania has been hosting opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who fled there after the election her supporters say she won.

Tsikhanouskaya will speak to the U.N. Security Council on Friday at Estonia's invitation, her spokesman said.

HUGE DEMONSTRATIONS

Tens of thousands of protesters again took to the streets in central Minsk on Sunday, seeking to keep up pressure on Lukashenko to resign. At least 140 people were detained, Russia's RIA news agency reported, citing the Belarusian Interior Ministry.

Lukashenko threatened on Friday to cut off European transit routes across his country in retaliation against any sanctions.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/women-march-through-belarusian-capital-calling-for-lukashenko-to-step-down-324026" hreflang="en">Women march through Belarusian capital calling for Lukashenko to step down</a>

Goods from landlocked Belarus account for almost a third of Lithuania's rail traffic and port volume. Belarus is also a major overland route for European goods bound for Russia, and carries pipelines used to ship Russian oil to Europe.

President Vladimir Putin has invited Lukashenko to Moscow, a sign of Kremlin support.

Last week, the Kremlin announced it had set up a reserve force able to intervene in Belarus, though it did not see a need for such intervention so far. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov repeated on Monday that Moscow still sees no need for action.

The German foreign ministry said it had summoned the Belarusian ambassador on Monday in response to the detention of foreign journalists in Belarus.

Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia imposed travel bans on President Alexander Lukashenko and 29 other Belarusian officials on Monday, jumping into action to impose sanctions before the rest of the EU.

Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia imposed travel bans on President Alexander Lukashenko and 29 other Belarusian officials on Monday, jumping into action to impose sanctions before the rest of the EU. The three Baltic states have led calls for the West to take firmer action against Lukashenko, who is accused by opponents and the West of rigging an election to prolong his 26-year rule. The sanctions are aimed at officials the three Baltic states accuse of vote rigging and playing a role in violence against protesters since the Aug. 9 election. Lukashenko's inclusion in the lists sends a message to other European countries which have been reluctant to back measures against him personally. Also read: Lukashenko gets birthday call from Putin, as tanks are seen in Minsk amid protests Lukashenko, an ally of Moscow, denies electoral fraud and has said the protesters are backed from abroad. "We said that we need peaceful dialogue and agreement between the regime and society, but we see that the regime is not ready for that," Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said. "We see that we need to move forward and to show an example to other countries." The European Union has been working on its own list of individuals in Belarus to target with similar sanctions, but Western countries have mostly been cautious, wary of provoking an intervention from Russia. The three small Baltic states are in the EU and Lithuania and Latvia border Belarus. Lithuania has been hosting opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who fled there after the election her supporters say she won. Tsikhanouskaya will speak to the U.N. Security Council on Friday at Estonia's invitation, her spokesman said. HUGE DEMONSTRATIONS Tens of thousands of protesters again took to the streets in central Minsk on Sunday, seeking to keep up pressure on Lukashenko to resign. At least 140 people were detained, Russia's RIA news agency reported, citing the Belarusian Interior Ministry. Lukashenko threatened on Friday to cut off European transit routes across his country in retaliation against any sanctions. Also read: Women march through Belarusian capital calling for Lukashenko to step down Goods from landlocked Belarus account for almost a third of Lithuania's rail traffic and port volume. Belarus is also a major overland route for European goods bound for Russia, and carries pipelines used to ship Russian oil to Europe. President Vladimir Putin has invited Lukashenko to Moscow, a sign of Kremlin support. Last week, the Kremlin announced it had set up a reserve force able to intervene in Belarus, though it did not see a need for such intervention so far. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov repeated on Monday that Moscow still sees no need for action. The German foreign ministry said it had summoned the Belarusian ambassador on Monday in response to the detention of foreign journalists in Belarus.

Baltic states hit Lukashenko, other Belarus officials with sanctions

Thousands of opposition supporters marched through the streets of Minsk on 66th birthday of Preseident Alexander Lukashenko. Calling for an end to Lukashenko's rule amid a heavy security presence and despite dozens of arrests.

Belarus: Protesters calls for Lukashenko to step down grow on his 66th B'day

Several thousand women marched in the capital of Belarus on Saturday waving flags, flowers and balloons in the latest in a series of anti-government protests that have gripped the country since a disputed presidential election this month.

President Alexander Lukashenko denies opposition accusations that he rigged the Aug. 9 election to prolong his 26-year rule. He says the protesters are funded by the West, and accuses NATO of massing forces on Belarusian frontiers, which the alliance denies.

The women on Saturday staged what they called a march of solidarity, calling on Lukashenko and his government to step down.

"This is our city" and "you better protect us," chanted the crowd, many of them sporting national dress.

Streets along the protest route were cordoned off by police and security troops. Rallies on a smaller scale took place in other cities and towns.

Several thousand women marched in the capital of Belarus on Saturday waving flags, flowers and balloons in the latest in a series of anti-government protests that have gripped the country since a disputed presidential election this month.

Several thousand women marched in the capital of Belarus on Saturday waving flags, flowers and balloons in the latest in a series of anti-government protests that have gripped the country since a disputed presidential election this month. President Alexander Lukashenko denies opposition accusations that he rigged the Aug. 9 election to prolong his 26-year rule. He says the protesters are funded by the West, and accuses NATO of massing forces on Belarusian frontiers, which the alliance denies. The women on Saturday staged what they called a march of solidarity, calling on Lukashenko and his government to step down. "This is our city" and "you better protect us," chanted the crowd, many of them sporting national dress. Streets along the protest route were cordoned off by police and security troops. Rallies on a smaller scale took place in other cities and towns.

Women march through Belarusian capital calling for Lukashenko to step down

As the Belarus elections remain shrouded in further conspiracies with tensions continuing to rise between the West and Russia. Watch report.

Belarus political unrest: The arrest of Mercenaries linked to Russian Wagner group

French government condemned an "arbitrary" crackdown against the media in Belarus on Sunday after the accreditation of several journalists working for foreign media was withdrawn in the wake of disputed presidential elections.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-government-investigates-senior-military-officer-over-security-breach-324110" hreflang="en">French government investigates senior military officer over 'security breach'</a>

"The arbitrary measures taken by the Belarusian authorities against journalists violate press freedom," Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said in a statement.

"I call on the Belarusian authorities to reverse these measures without delay," he added, saying that the crisis in Belarus requires "the establishment of an inclusive national dialogue".

"Repressive measures against journalists cannot help," he said.

On Saturday, Belarusian authorities withdrew the accreditation of journalists working for several foreign media, including AFP, ahead of a major demonstration Sunday challenging the results of the presidential election. 
&nbsp; 
According to Anatoly Glaz, spokesman of the Belarus government, the decision to revoke the media accreditations was taken on the recommendation of the country's counter-terrorism unit.

He did not specify how many journalists were affected by the measure, but foreign media including the BBC, Reuters and Radio Liberty reported the withdrawal of accreditation of several of their journalists.

(Inputs from AFP)

French government condemned an "arbitrary" crackdown against the media in Belarus on Sunday after the accreditation of several journalists working for foreign media was withdrawn in the wake of disputed presidential elections.

French government condemned an "arbitrary" crackdown against the media in Belarus on Sunday after the accreditation of several journalists working for foreign media was withdrawn in the wake of disputed presidential elections. Also read: French government investigates senior military officer over 'security breach' "The arbitrary measures taken by the Belarusian authorities against journalists violate press freedom," Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said in a statement. "I call on the Belarusian authorities to reverse these measures without delay," he added, saying that the crisis in Belarus requires "the establishment of an inclusive national dialogue". "Repressive measures against journalists cannot help," he said. On Saturday, Belarusian authorities withdrew the accreditation of journalists working for several foreign media, including AFP, ahead of a major demonstration Sunday challenging the results of the presidential election. According to Anatoly Glaz, spokesman of the Belarus government, the decision to revoke the media accreditations was taken on the recommendation of the country's counter-terrorism unit. He did not specify how many journalists were affected by the measure, but foreign media including the BBC, Reuters and Radio Liberty reported the withdrawal of accreditation of several of their journalists. (Inputs from AFP)

France slams 'arbitrary' crackdown on media in Belarus

Sporting icons in Belarus have signed an open letter condemning vote-rigging in polls claimed by President Alexander Lukashenko. These icons called for fresh elections.

Sporting icons in Belarus have signed an open letter condemning vote-rigging in polls claimed by President Alexander Lukashenko. These icons called for fresh elections. Also read: Women march through Belarusian capital calling for Lukashenko to step down According to the letter published on Tribuna.com, a sports website, athletes including Olympic medallists and members of national teams were among the 363 to sign to condemn rigged polls. The letter declared the August 9 presidential election in Belarus, that was won by Lukashenko, invalid due to vote-rigging. It called for fresh elections as per international standards. The letter also demanded an end to police violence and the release of all political prisoners. It also said that the signatories would show solidarity if any faced reprisals "right up to possible refusal to compete for the national team." Country's Olympic medallists signed, including gold-winning freestyle skier Anna Guskova, two-time silver-medallist swimmer Aleksandra Herasimenya and silver-winning rhythmic gymnast Anna Glazkova. Dynamo Minsk's footballer Igor Shitov also signed. The head coach of the national freestyle skiing team Nikolai Kozeko as well as members of current and former national teams in sports including volleyball, pentathlon and swimming. Commentators noted the absence of top stars including four-times Olympic biathlon champion Darya Domracheva, who has condemned violence in a message on Instagram, as well as competitors in Lukashenko's favourite sport: ice hockey. (Inputs from AFP)

From Olympic medalists to head coaches: Belarusian athletes sign letter condemning rigged polls

Our world leaders have learnt the lesson of remaining defiant in the face of storm quite well.

When problems come knocking at the door, they switch on the showmanship mode.

Russian President Vladimir Putin opened a newly constructed part of Tavrida road in the annexed Crimea on Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-drives-car-in-annexed-crimea-during-rare-trip-outside-moscow-323632" hreflang="en">Putin drives car in annexed Crimea during rare trip outside Moscow</a>

Putin took a ride on the new road together with the main technical expert of the constructor company.&nbsp; 
In one of his comments, Putin suggested that the road should be equipped with more turnoffs for those who come to the seaside.

Moscow annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, drawing sanctions and sending relations with the West to post-Cold War lows.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-despite-their-troubles-these-leaders-remain-defiant-323799/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Russia has spent heavily to integrate Crimea into its territory, and it has been the focus of espionage and military tensions since its annexation.

On the other hand Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko made a dramatic show of defiance against the massive protests demanding his resignation, toting a rifle and wearing a bulletproof vest as he strode off a helicopter that landed at his residence while demonstrators massed nearby.

There are massive protests against him --- not just in Belarus, but also in neighbouring Lithuania.

Our leaders feel the need to always project themselves as fit. Some leaders-- take it a step forward.

They like being called superhuman and cool. Come trouble, and they are at their defiant best.

Twenty first century dictators thrive in showmanship. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Our world leaders have learnt the lesson of remaining defiant in the face of storm quite well. When problems come knocking at the door, they switch on the showmanship mode.

Our world leaders have learnt the lesson of remaining defiant in the face of storm quite well. When problems come knocking at the door, they switch on the showmanship mode. Russian President Vladimir Putin opened a newly constructed part of Tavrida road in the annexed Crimea on Thursday. Also read: Putin drives car in annexed Crimea during rare trip outside Moscow Putin took a ride on the new road together with the main technical expert of the constructor company. In one of his comments, Putin suggested that the road should be equipped with more turnoffs for those who come to the seaside. Moscow annexed Crimea from Ukraine in 2014, drawing sanctions and sending relations with the West to post-Cold War lows. Russia has spent heavily to integrate Crimea into its territory, and it has been the focus of espionage and military tensions since its annexation. On the other hand Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko made a dramatic show of defiance against the massive protests demanding his resignation, toting a rifle and wearing a bulletproof vest as he strode off a helicopter that landed at his residence while demonstrators massed nearby. There are massive protests against him --- not just in Belarus, but also in neighbouring Lithuania. Our leaders feel the need to always project themselves as fit. Some leaders-- take it a step forward. They like being called superhuman and cool. Come trouble, and they are at their defiant best. Twenty first century dictators thrive in showmanship. (With inputs from agencies)

Dictators of 21st century thrive on showmanship

Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed military support for embattled Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday, although it would not be deployed unless unrest there spun out of control.

The remarks were the strongest signal yet that Russia is prepared to use force if needed in Belarus, where mass demonstrations have taken place since an August&nbsp;9 election that the opposition says was rigged to prolong Lukashenko's 26-year rule.

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>

"We have of course certain obligations towards Belarus, and the question Lukashenko raised was whether we would provide the necessary help,"&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;told state television.

"I told him Russia would fulfil all its obligations. Alexander Grigorivich (Lukashenko) asked me to create a reserve police force and I have done that. But we agreed this would not be used unless the situation got out of control."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/showdown-between-lukashenko-coalition-of-protesters-anti-govt-protests-in-belarus-322979/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The 65-year-old Belarusian strongman's relationship with Putin had soured ahead of the ballot because Minsk refused closer integration with Russia and even claimed Moscow had sent mercenaries across the border to organise riots.

The Belarusian opposition Coordination Council said Moscow's move to set up such force violated international law.

NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said Russia should stay out of the crisis saying it was a "sovereign and independent state."

Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki meanwhile said any Russian intervention would be a breach of international law and the "human rights of Belarusian people, who should be free to decide their own fate".

But Putin also called on the authorities in Minsk and the opposition to "find a way out" of the crisis peacefully.&nbsp;

He conceded there were problems in Belarus, saying, "otherwise people wouldn't take to the streets".

The Russian leader's calls for calm came after the European Union and ambassadors of member states in Minsk condemned a crackdown on government critics seeking new elections and Lukashenko's&nbsp;resignation.

EU nations have also vowed to sanction individuals they say were involved in vote-rigging and the violent crackdown on protesters.

Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed military support for embattled Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday, although it would not be deployed unless unrest there spun out of control.

Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed military support for embattled Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday, although it would not be deployed unless unrest there spun out of control. The remarks were the strongest signal yet that Russia is prepared to use force if needed in Belarus, where mass demonstrations have taken place since an August 9 election that the opposition says was rigged to prolong Lukashenko's 26-year rule. Also see: We come in peace: Belarusian women dressed in white protest against corrupt leadership "We have of course certain obligations towards Belarus, and the question Lukashenko raised was whether we would provide the necessary help," Putin told state television. "I told him Russia would fulfil all its obligations. Alexander Grigorivich (Lukashenko) asked me to create a reserve police force and I have done that. But we agreed this would not be used unless the situation got out of control." The 65-year-old Belarusian strongman's relationship with Putin had soured ahead of the ballot because Minsk refused closer integration with Russia and even claimed Moscow had sent mercenaries across the border to organise riots. The Belarusian opposition Coordination Council said Moscow's move to set up such force violated international law. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg said Russia should stay out of the crisis saying it was a "sovereign and independent state." Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki meanwhile said any Russian intervention would be a breach of international law and the "human rights of Belarusian people, who should be free to decide their own fate". But Putin also called on the authorities in Minsk and the opposition to "find a way out" of the crisis peacefully. He conceded there were problems in Belarus, saying, "otherwise people wouldn't take to the streets". The Russian leader's calls for calm came after the European Union and ambassadors of member states in Minsk condemned a crackdown on government critics seeking new elections and Lukashenko's resignation. EU nations have also vowed to sanction individuals they say were involved in vote-rigging and the violent crackdown on protesters.

Russian President Putin vows military support for Belarus' Lukashenko

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Friday threatened to retaliate with reciprocal measures if any sanctions were imposed against his country over an Aug. 9 presidential election which opponents say was rigged.

Speaking during a dairy factory visit in the country`s east, Lukashenko threatened to cut off transit routes through the country and boycott Lithuanian ports if sanctions were imposed.

"I`ve instructed the government to submit a proposal on reorienting all trade flows from Lithuanian ports to other ones," Belta state news agency quoted Lukashenko as saying. "Let`s see how they live with that."

Lukashenko, who is facing the biggest challenge of his 26-year-old rule, also ordered that half the army of the country of 9.5 million enter combat preparedness in response to what he said were threats from the West.

European Union foreign ministers on Thursday sought sanctions against Belarus to pressure Lukashenko into holding new elections. Lukashenko denies electoral fraud and has persistently rejected the opposition`s calls to hold a new vote.

German chancellor Angela Merkel told reporters she had tried to speak to Lukashenko by phone but he had declined. Speaking of a reserve police force which Russian President Vladimir Putin said had been created on Lukashenko`s request, she said:

"I hope that such troops are not deployed."

"(Freedom to demonstrate, freedom of expression) have to be fought for there. The people must be allowed to do that themselves without interference from outside – from anywhere," Merkel added.

EU ministers are currently considering travel bans and asset freezes on up to 20 people responsible for a crackdown on demonstrators two weeks after an election they say was rigged.

It already has an arms embargo on Belarus but in 2015, in a bid to improve ties with Lukashenko, the bloc eased economic sanctions that had been in place in 2004.

However, Western powers are keen to balance sympathy for a nascent Belarusian pro-democracy movement with concern this could trigger a Russian-backed crackdown. Disruptions to energy supplies are also a fear.

Belarus is a conduit for Russian oil exportrs to Europe via the Druzhba pipeline. Energy supplies continue to flow smoothly, Polish oil and gas pipeline operators told Reuters.

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Friday threatened to retaliate with reciprocal measures if any sanctions were imposed against his country over an Aug. 9 presidential election which opponents say was rigged.

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Friday threatened to retaliate with reciprocal measures if any sanctions were imposed against his country over an Aug. 9 presidential election which opponents say was rigged. Speaking during a dairy factory visit in the country`s east, Lukashenko threatened to cut off transit routes through the country and boycott Lithuanian ports if sanctions were imposed. "I`ve instructed the government to submit a proposal on reorienting all trade flows from Lithuanian ports to other ones," Belta state news agency quoted Lukashenko as saying. "Let`s see how they live with that." Lukashenko, who is facing the biggest challenge of his 26-year-old rule, also ordered that half the army of the country of 9.5 million enter combat preparedness in response to what he said were threats from the West. European Union foreign ministers on Thursday sought sanctions against Belarus to pressure Lukashenko into holding new elections. Lukashenko denies electoral fraud and has persistently rejected the opposition`s calls to hold a new vote. German chancellor Angela Merkel told reporters she had tried to speak to Lukashenko by phone but he had declined. Speaking of a reserve police force which Russian President Vladimir Putin said had been created on Lukashenko`s request, she said: "I hope that such troops are not deployed." "(Freedom to demonstrate, freedom of expression) have to be fought for there. The people must be allowed to do that themselves without interference from outside – from anywhere," Merkel added. EU ministers are currently considering travel bans and asset freezes on up to 20 people responsible for a crackdown on demonstrators two weeks after an election they say was rigged. It already has an arms embargo on Belarus but in 2015, in a bid to improve ties with Lukashenko, the bloc eased economic sanctions that had been in place in 2004. However, Western powers are keen to balance sympathy for a nascent Belarusian pro-democracy movement with concern this could trigger a Russian-backed crackdown. Disruptions to energy supplies are also a fear. Belarus is a conduit for Russian oil exportrs to Europe via the Druzhba pipeline. Energy supplies continue to flow smoothly, Polish oil and gas pipeline operators told Reuters.

Belarus will reciprocate if sanctions imposed, Lukashenko says

Thousands have taken to the streets of Belarus to demand that Alexander Lukashenko step down as the President. Lukashenko has ruled Belarus for 26 years. His 'dictatorship' is now being challenged by a 37-year-old. Palki Sharma Upadhyay has the report.

Gravitas: Is Europe's Last Dictator on his way out?

At least 200,000 people gathered at Minsk’s independent square over the weekend. They demanded the resignation of Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko.

Often referred to as Europe’s last dictator, Alexander Lukashenko has maintained a tight grip on power by retaining much from the country’s Soviet past.&nbsp;

Lukashenka is 65 years old, he has spent 26 years as the president of Belarus but the old man's thirst for power is unquenched. 
 
When a 37-year-old Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya challenged him in the August 9 polls, Lukashenko forged the results and triggered a revolution.

Now, all bets are against Lukashenko and his fall is imminent.

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The uprising in Belarus has already erupted last week in a democratic vacuum, in a country where challengers to President Alexander Lukashenko are jailed or exiled and where there is no experienced parliamentary opposition.

But the dictator lives in denial, publicly denouncing the protesters as 'rats' and secretly fearing them.

On Sunday, Lukashenko flew over a sea of protesters wearing a bullet proof jacket. He landed in the presidential palace brandishing a rifle. 
 
Belarus has become a global headline, 50,000 Lithuanians formed a human chain in support of Belarusians. The chain was 30 kilometers long and stretched all the way from Vilnius to the Belarus border.

Among the participants was Lithuania’s President- Gitanas Nauseda.

Speaking from Vilnius, exiled leader Tsikhanouskaya said-- Lukashenko's fall is only a matter of time.

"Belarusian people have changed during this year and even if he (President Alexander Lukashenko) does (go ahead with inauguration), Belarusian people will not accept him as new president and now our people are absolutely different and I am sure that sooner or later he will have to leave,” She said.&nbsp;

The 37-year-old has baffled political pundits by challenging a 26-year-old dictatorship. One year ago, Tsikhanouskaya was just another Belarusian housewife. Today, and she sees herself as a symbol of change.

Russia believes that the polls in Belarus were fair and Tsikhanouskaya only interested in creating disunity in the country. 
 
"In the absence of the (election) observers that the west considers to be independent it's very difficult to convince someone that the result of the presidential elections was diametrically opposed to what was announced,” Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.

Russia and China are the only countries rallying behind Lukashenko. 
 
As Europe’s last dictator struggles to stay in power, the world is watching Belarus closely.

Lukashenko’s fall will have big political implications. Russia perhaps will feel the pain most strongly.

At least 200,000 people gathered at Minsk’s independent square over the weekend. They demanded the resignation of Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko. Often referred to as Europe’s last dictator, Alexander Lukashenko has maintained a tight grip on power by retaining much from the country’s Soviet past.

At least 200,000 people gathered at Minsk’s independent square over the weekend. They demanded the resignation of Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko. Often referred to as Europe’s last dictator, Alexander Lukashenko has maintained a tight grip on power by retaining much from the country’s Soviet past. Lukashenka is 65 years old, he has spent 26 years as the president of Belarus but the old man's thirst for power is unquenched. When a 37-year-old Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya challenged him in the August 9 polls, Lukashenko forged the results and triggered a revolution. Now, all bets are against Lukashenko and his fall is imminent. The uprising in Belarus has already erupted last week in a democratic vacuum, in a country where challengers to President Alexander Lukashenko are jailed or exiled and where there is no experienced parliamentary opposition. But the dictator lives in denial, publicly denouncing the protesters as 'rats' and secretly fearing them. On Sunday, Lukashenko flew over a sea of protesters wearing a bullet proof jacket. He landed in the presidential palace brandishing a rifle. Belarus has become a global headline, 50,000 Lithuanians formed a human chain in support of Belarusians. The chain was 30 kilometers long and stretched all the way from Vilnius to the Belarus border. Among the participants was Lithuania’s President- Gitanas Nauseda. Speaking from Vilnius, exiled leader Tsikhanouskaya said-- Lukashenko's fall is only a matter of time. "Belarusian people have changed during this year and even if he (President Alexander Lukashenko) does (go ahead with inauguration), Belarusian people will not accept him as new president and now our people are absolutely different and I am sure that sooner or later he will have to leave,” She said. The 37-year-old has baffled political pundits by challenging a 26-year-old dictatorship. One year ago, Tsikhanouskaya was just another Belarusian housewife. Today, and she sees herself as a symbol of change. Russia believes that the polls in Belarus were fair and Tsikhanouskaya only interested in creating disunity in the country. "In the absence of the (election) observers that the west considers to be independent it's very difficult to convince someone that the result of the presidential elections was diametrically opposed to what was announced,” Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said. Russia and China are the only countries rallying behind Lukashenko. As Europe’s last dictator struggles to stay in power, the world is watching Belarus closely. Lukashenko’s fall will have big political implications. Russia perhaps will feel the pain most strongly.

Belarus: Europe’s last dictator struggles to stay in power

Tens of thousands of protesters flooded the Belarusian capital on Sunday even as they defied military orders. They have been demanding that Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko should step down.

The crowd marched towards Lukashenko's residence at the Independence Palace in Minsk, on the northern edge of the capital, the majority gathering at some distance, while a smaller group approached to between 10 and 20 metres of the building

The veteran leader denounced the demonstrators as "rats" and was seen in state media footage wearing body armour and holding a rifle, projecting an unyielding image amid the huge nationwide demonstrations that erupted after a disputed election on August 9.

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The protests have provided the biggest challenge yet to Lukashenko's 26 years at the helm and tested the loyalty of his security forces.

Minsk's streets turned red and white on Sunday as demonstrators carried flags symbolising their opposition to Lukashenko and chanted for him to leave power and for new elections to be held.

Lukashenko, a former Soviet state farm boss, was shown in state media footage flying over the protests in a helicopter before landing at his residence and emerging in body armour with a rifle in his hand.

Some protesters milling below chanted "coward" as a helicopter was seen flying out of the residence, a Reuters witness said.

Later, a video circulated by state media showed Lukashenko walking over to riot police outside his residence and thanking them, eliciting an outburst of applause from security staff.

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Protests in Belarus | Over 200,000 people took to the streets of Minsk while President Lukashenko brandished a rifle. The protesters received support from people in Lithuania and Ukraine, who made human chains in solidarity.<a href="https://twitter.com/PriyankaSh25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PriyankaSh25</a> tells you more <a href="https://t.co/GTLZA8FZiV">pic.twitter.com/GTLZA8FZiV</a>
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It was the first time in this month's demonstrations that protesters have neared the building's doors. The approach to the palace took place after a crowd estimated by a Reuters witness to number as many as 200,000 rallied in central Minsk for the second weekend in a row.

The crowd began to disperse in early evening. Reuters witnessed no clashes with police.

"They have scattered like rats," Lukashenko could be heard saying in a video clip published by the Belta news agency as he flew overhead.

Belarus state television said 20,000 people took part in the protest.

Protests triggered by Lukashenko's claims of a landslide election victory found a leader in opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, a former teacher who took her jailed husband's place on the ballot.

Following threats to her safety, Tsikhanouskaya fled to neighbouring Lithuania.

Tsikhanouskaya, who speaks Russian at home, has said she would like to see Belarus maintain close relations with Russia, but that Belarus should remain independent and not integrate further into Russia.

Tens of thousands of protesters flooded the Belarusian capital on Sunday even as they defied military orders. They have been demanding that Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko should step down.

Tens of thousands of protesters flooded the Belarusian capital on Sunday even as they defied military orders. They have been demanding that Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko should step down. The crowd marched towards Lukashenko's residence at the Independence Palace in Minsk, on the northern edge of the capital, the majority gathering at some distance, while a smaller group approached to between 10 and 20 metres of the building The veteran leader denounced the demonstrators as "rats" and was seen in state media footage wearing body armour and holding a rifle, projecting an unyielding image amid the huge nationwide demonstrations that erupted after a disputed election on August 9. The protests have provided the biggest challenge yet to Lukashenko's 26 years at the helm and tested the loyalty of his security forces. Minsk's streets turned red and white on Sunday as demonstrators carried flags symbolising their opposition to Lukashenko and chanted for him to leave power and for new elections to be held. Lukashenko, a former Soviet state farm boss, was shown in state media footage flying over the protests in a helicopter before landing at his residence and emerging in body armour with a rifle in his hand. Some protesters milling below chanted "coward" as a helicopter was seen flying out of the residence, a Reuters witness said. Later, a video circulated by state media showed Lukashenko walking over to riot police outside his residence and thanking them, eliciting an outburst of applause from security staff. Protests in Belarus | Over 200,000 people took to the streets of Minsk while President Lukashenko brandished a rifle. The protesters received support from people in Lithuania and Ukraine, who made human chains in solidarity.@PriyankaSh25 tells you more pic.twitter.com/GTLZA8FZiV — WION (@WIONews) August 24, 2020 × It was the first time in this month's demonstrations that protesters have neared the building's doors. The approach to the palace took place after a crowd estimated by a Reuters witness to number as many as 200,000 rallied in central Minsk for the second weekend in a row. The crowd began to disperse in early evening. Reuters witnessed no clashes with police. "They have scattered like rats," Lukashenko could be heard saying in a video clip published by the Belta news agency as he flew overhead. Belarus state television said 20,000 people took part in the protest. Protests triggered by Lukashenko's claims of a landslide election victory found a leader in opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, a former teacher who took her jailed husband's place on the ballot. Following threats to her safety, Tsikhanouskaya fled to neighbouring Lithuania. Tsikhanouskaya, who speaks Russian at home, has said she would like to see Belarus maintain close relations with Russia, but that Belarus should remain independent and not integrate further into Russia.

Protesters flood Belarusian capital; Lukashenko seen in body armour

Belarusians have gathered in unprecedented numbers in Minsk to demand the resignation of President Alexander Lukashenko, who claimed victory for a sixth term on Aug.

Lithuania citizens form human chain to support Belarus anti-govt protests

Belarusians have gathered in unprecedented numbers in Minsk to demand the resignation of President Alexander Lukashenko, who claimed victory for a sixth term.

Belarus President flies over Minsk as protests roil capital

Belarus's authoritarian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Saturday ordered his defence minister to take "stringent measures" to defend the country's territorial integrity after mass protests erupted against his claim to election victory.

The 65-year-old,&nbsp;who said he won a sixth presidential term with 80 percent of the vote&nbsp;in the August 9 ballot, made the comments while inspecting military units in Grodno, near Belarus's border with Poland, according to the president's press service.

Lukashenko denounced the recent&nbsp;mass protests, which he said were receiving support from Western countries, and ordered the army to defend western Belarus, which he described as "a pearl".

"It involves taking the most stringent measures to protect the territorial integrity of our country," Lukashenko said.

His visit comes ahead of large-scale military exercises planned in the Grodno region between August 28 and 31.

The former collective farm director said that NATO troops in Poland and Lithuania were "seriously stirring" near their borders with Belarus and ordered his troops into full combat readiness.

NATO&nbsp;said the claims were "baseless".

"As we have already made clear, NATO poses no threat to Belarus or any other country and has no military buildup in the region," it said in a statement.

Both countries also denied the accusation.

"The regime is trying to divert attention from Belarus's internal problems at any cost with totally baseless statements about imaginary external threats," Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda told AFP.

The Polish president's chief of staff, Krzysztof Szczerski, for his part dismissed the claim that Poland planned to violate Belarusian territorial integrity as "regime propaganda", calling it "sad and surprising".

"Poland... has no such intention," he told the Polish news agency PAP.

Mass protests

Lithuania's foreign ministry announced that US Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun will visit Vilnius and Russia next week for talks on Belarus and the elections fallout.

He is notably planning to meet with Lukashenko's election challenger&nbsp;<a href="https://www.france24.com/en/20200822-tsikhanouskaya-says-she-would-not-seek-belarus-presidency-if-new-elections-held" target="_self">Svetlana Tikhanovskaya</a>&nbsp;in Lithuania, where she is now in exile, her representatives told AFP.

Tikhanovskaya, who fled Belarus after the disputed ballot in which she claims victory, said Saturday "we are not afraid."

"I am so proud of Belarusians now because after 26 years of fear they are ready to defend their rights," she told AFP.

"I call them to continue, not to stop, because it's really important now to continue to be united in the struggle for the rights."

Opponents of Europe's longest serving leader have organised strikes and the largest demonstrations in the ex-Soviet country's recent history to protest his re-election and demand that he stand down.

The opposition has called for a major rally in Minsk on Sunday after more than 100,000 people flooded onto the streets of the capital and other cities in Belarus last weekend demanding Lukashenko's resignation.

The European Union this week rejected his re-election and vowed to levy sanctions against what it said was a substantial number of people responsible for rigging the vote and cracking down on protests.

The Belarusian authorities have opened a criminal investigation into the opposition's Coordination Council, whose members are seeking new elections and a peaceful transition of power.

Lukashenko has rejected the idea of holding another ballot, dismissed calls to resign and accused the opposition of attempting to seize power.

On Friday he vowed to "solve the problem" of the protest movement.

Tikhanovskaya said this week that Belarusians would "never accept the current leadership again" after the crackdown on post-election protests.

Belarus's authoritarian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Saturday ordered his defence minister to take "stringent measures" to defend the country's territorial integrity after mass protests erupted against his claim to election victory.

Belarus's authoritarian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Saturday ordered his defence minister to take "stringent measures" to defend the country's territorial integrity after mass protests erupted against his claim to election victory. The 65-year-old, who said he won a sixth presidential term with 80 percent of the vote in the August 9 ballot, made the comments while inspecting military units in Grodno, near Belarus's border with Poland, according to the president's press service. Lukashenko denounced the recent mass protests, which he said were receiving support from Western countries, and ordered the army to defend western Belarus, which he described as "a pearl". "It involves taking the most stringent measures to protect the territorial integrity of our country," Lukashenko said. His visit comes ahead of large-scale military exercises planned in the Grodno region between August 28 and 31. The former collective farm director said that NATO troops in Poland and Lithuania were "seriously stirring" near their borders with Belarus and ordered his troops into full combat readiness. NATO said the claims were "baseless". "As we have already made clear, NATO poses no threat to Belarus or any other country and has no military buildup in the region," it said in a statement. Both countries also denied the accusation. "The regime is trying to divert attention from Belarus's internal problems at any cost with totally baseless statements about imaginary external threats," Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda told AFP. The Polish president's chief of staff, Krzysztof Szczerski, for his part dismissed the claim that Poland planned to violate Belarusian territorial integrity as "regime propaganda", calling it "sad and surprising". "Poland... has no such intention," he told the Polish news agency PAP. Mass protests Lithuania's foreign ministry announced that US Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun will visit Vilnius and Russia next week for talks on Belarus and the elections fallout. He is notably planning to meet with Lukashenko's election challenger Svetlana Tikhanovskaya in Lithuania, where she is now in exile, her representatives told AFP. Tikhanovskaya, who fled Belarus after the disputed ballot in which she claims victory, said Saturday "we are not afraid." "I am so proud of Belarusians now because after 26 years of fear they are ready to defend their rights," she told AFP. "I call them to continue, not to stop, because it's really important now to continue to be united in the struggle for the rights." Opponents of Europe's longest serving leader have organised strikes and the largest demonstrations in the ex-Soviet country's recent history to protest his re-election and demand that he stand down. The opposition has called for a major rally in Minsk on Sunday after more than 100,000 people flooded onto the streets of the capital and other cities in Belarus last weekend demanding Lukashenko's resignation. The European Union this week rejected his re-election and vowed to levy sanctions against what it said was a substantial number of people responsible for rigging the vote and cracking down on protests. The Belarusian authorities have opened a criminal investigation into the opposition's Coordination Council, whose members are seeking new elections and a peaceful transition of power. Lukashenko has rejected the idea of holding another ballot, dismissed calls to resign and accused the opposition of attempting to seize power. On Friday he vowed to "solve the problem" of the protest movement. Tikhanovskaya said this week that Belarusians would "never accept the current leadership again" after the crackdown on post-election protests.

Lukashenko warns of NATO troops near borders as Belarus opposition calls for Minsk rally

Tens of thousands of demonstrators massed in central Minsk on Sunday to demand the resignation of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, the latest in a wave of protests against his disputed re-election.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eus-top-diplomat-warns-belarus-to-avoid-being-second-ukraine-322588" hreflang="en">EU's top diplomat warns Belarus to avoid being 'second Ukraine'</a>

The authoritarian leader has ordered the military into full combat readiness in the face of the biggest challenge to his 26-year rule of the ex-Soviet state.

He has dispatched his notorious riot police to disperse rallies that erupted after he claimed a sixth term in an election two weeks ago that critics say was rigged.

Crowds of protesters carrying the red-and-white flag of the opposition flooded Independence Square and marched through the capital chanting "freedom" and "we will not forget, we will not forgive" as passing cars honked in support.

"We have just two demands: fair elections and stop the violence," 32-year-old Igor told AFP.

Officials had warned Belarusians against participating in "illegal demonstrations" and local news outlets published footage showing water cannon and riot police with shields moving towards Independence Square.&nbsp;

The defence ministry said it would intervene to protect "sacred" World War II memorials and several metro stations in Minsk were closed.

<h2>Human chain&nbsp;</h2>

Opposition-leaning media said more than 100,000 protesters had convened in the capital for the second Sunday in a row and smaller demonstrations were also reported in provincial cities.

"Lukashenko wants everyone to leave and live like it was. But it won't be like it used to be," said Nikita, a 28-year-old protester.

In solidarity, demonstrators in neighbouring Lithuania are forming a human chain from Vilnius to the&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;border, three decades after residents of the Baltic states joined hands and linked their capital cities in a mass protest against Soviet rule.&nbsp;

<h2>No 'second Ukraine'&nbsp;</h2>

The EU has rejected the election results and vowed to sanction Belarusians responsible for ballot fraud and a police crackdown that has seen nearly 7,000 people arrested, with allegations of gruesome torture and abuse in police custody.

Top EU diplomat Josep Borrell warned that&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;should not be allowed to become a "second Ukraine" and said it was necessary to deal with the 65-year-old Lukashenko, Europe's longest serving leader.

Outgoing OSCE chairman Edi Rama also offered to mediated a resolution to the crisis, in a letter obtained by AFP to his successor Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde.

The man branded "Europe's last dictator" has brushed aside the calls to go, dismissed the possibility of holding a new vote and instructed his security services to quell unrest and secure the borders.

His judiciary opened a criminal investigation into the opposition's Coordination Council that is seeking new elections and the peaceful transition of power, after he said opponents wanted to "seize power".

<h2>'Fatherland in danger'&nbsp;</h2>

The former collective farm boss ordered the military into full combat readiness during an army inspection near the border with the EU on Saturday and warned about NATO troop "stirrings" in neighbouring countries.

"The fatherland is now in danger. We cannot joke," Lukashenko said.

Lithuania's President Gitanas Nauseda said Lukashenko was trying to "divert attention" from the unrest at home, while NATO dismissed the claims as baseless.

The unlikely leader of&nbsp;Belarus's opposition, 37-year-old Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, fled to Vilnius fearing reprisals for mounting the greatest challenge to Lukashenko and claiming election victory.

In an interview with AFP ahead of the demonstrations, she urged protesters to continue to exert pressure on the authorities, saying it was "important to continue to be united in the struggle for the rights".

The authorities have to understand "we are not a protest movement... we are a majority and we will not step away. We are not afraid of them any more."

Lukashenko's opponents have organised strikes and the largest protests in the country's recent history, with more than 100,000 people turning out in Minsk alone last weekend.

Yet fewer workers at state-run factories -- usually a bastion of support for Lukashenko -- have continued to strike, with activists citing pressure from the authorities.

The president has threatened from Monday to shut down production lines where workers have put down their tools.

Staff at state-run media outlets have also staged walkouts and Lukashenko admitted this week that journalists from Russia had been flown in to replace them.

Russia, his powerful ally, has warned European leaders against interfering in&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;and the Kremlin has said it would intervene if necessary.

US Deputy&nbsp;Secretary of State Stephen Biegun&nbsp;will visit Lithuania as part of a trip next week that will also include a stop in Russia for talks on the election fallout.

He is planning to meet with Tikhanovskaya, her representatives told AFP.

Lukashenko's army inspection Saturday came ahead of large-scale military exercises planned on the border with the European Union between August 28 and 31.

Tens of thousands of demonstrators massed in central Minsk on Sunday to demand the resignation of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, the latest in a wave of protests against his disputed re-election.

Tens of thousands of demonstrators massed in central Minsk on Sunday to demand the resignation of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, the latest in a wave of protests against his disputed re-election. Also read: EU's top diplomat warns Belarus to avoid being 'second Ukraine' The authoritarian leader has ordered the military into full combat readiness in the face of the biggest challenge to his 26-year rule of the ex-Soviet state. He has dispatched his notorious riot police to disperse rallies that erupted after he claimed a sixth term in an election two weeks ago that critics say was rigged. Crowds of protesters carrying the red-and-white flag of the opposition flooded Independence Square and marched through the capital chanting "freedom" and "we will not forget, we will not forgive" as passing cars honked in support. "We have just two demands: fair elections and stop the violence," 32-year-old Igor told AFP. Officials had warned Belarusians against participating in "illegal demonstrations" and local news outlets published footage showing water cannon and riot police with shields moving towards Independence Square. The defence ministry said it would intervene to protect "sacred" World War II memorials and several metro stations in Minsk were closed. Human chain Opposition-leaning media said more than 100,000 protesters had convened in the capital for the second Sunday in a row and smaller demonstrations were also reported in provincial cities. "Lukashenko wants everyone to leave and live like it was. But it won't be like it used to be," said Nikita, a 28-year-old protester. In solidarity, demonstrators in neighbouring Lithuania are forming a human chain from Vilnius to the Belarus border, three decades after residents of the Baltic states joined hands and linked their capital cities in a mass protest against Soviet rule. No 'second Ukraine' The EU has rejected the election results and vowed to sanction Belarusians responsible for ballot fraud and a police crackdown that has seen nearly 7,000 people arrested, with allegations of gruesome torture and abuse in police custody. Top EU diplomat Josep Borrell warned that Belarus should not be allowed to become a "second Ukraine" and said it was necessary to deal with the 65-year-old Lukashenko, Europe's longest serving leader. Outgoing OSCE chairman Edi Rama also offered to mediated a resolution to the crisis, in a letter obtained by AFP to his successor Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde. The man branded "Europe's last dictator" has brushed aside the calls to go, dismissed the possibility of holding a new vote and instructed his security services to quell unrest and secure the borders. His judiciary opened a criminal investigation into the opposition's Coordination Council that is seeking new elections and the peaceful transition of power, after he said opponents wanted to "seize power". 'Fatherland in danger' The former collective farm boss ordered the military into full combat readiness during an army inspection near the border with the EU on Saturday and warned about NATO troop "stirrings" in neighbouring countries. "The fatherland is now in danger. We cannot joke," Lukashenko said. Lithuania's President Gitanas Nauseda said Lukashenko was trying to "divert attention" from the unrest at home, while NATO dismissed the claims as baseless. The unlikely leader of Belarus's opposition, 37-year-old Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, fled to Vilnius fearing reprisals for mounting the greatest challenge to Lukashenko and claiming election victory. In an interview with AFP ahead of the demonstrations, she urged protesters to continue to exert pressure on the authorities, saying it was "important to continue to be united in the struggle for the rights". The authorities have to understand "we are not a protest movement... we are a majority and we will not step away. We are not afraid of them any more." Lukashenko's opponents have organised strikes and the largest protests in the country's recent history, with more than 100,000 people turning out in Minsk alone last weekend. Yet fewer workers at state-run factories -- usually a bastion of support for Lukashenko -- have continued to strike, with activists citing pressure from the authorities. The president has threatened from Monday to shut down production lines where workers have put down their tools. Staff at state-run media outlets have also staged walkouts and Lukashenko admitted this week that journalists from Russia had been flown in to replace them. Russia, his powerful ally, has warned European leaders against interfering in Belarus and the Kremlin has said it would intervene if necessary. US Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun will visit Lithuania as part of a trip next week that will also include a stop in Russia for talks on the election fallout. He is planning to meet with Tikhanovskaya, her representatives told AFP. Lukashenko's army inspection Saturday came ahead of large-scale military exercises planned on the border with the European Union between August 28 and 31.

Mass Belarus protests to demand Lukashenko's resignation

Exiled Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya sees herself as a symbol of change whose role is to help deliver new elections as President Alexander Lukashenko will have to quit sooner or later, she told Reuters on Saturday.

Speaking in Lithuania where she and her two children have fled for security reasons, Tsikhanouskaya said she felt duty-bound to do what she could to support protesters in her home country but would not run for president again.

“During the campaign I didn’t see myself as a politician but I pushed myself forward,” she said. “I don’t see myself in politics. I am not a politician.”

Tens of thousands of Belarusians have taken to the streets for nearly two weeks to protest against what they believe was a rigged Aug. 9 presidential election. They want veteran leader Lukashenko to quit so new elections can be held.

Tsikhanouskaya, who ran in the election against Lukashenko after her husband, a well-known video blogger, was jailed, said fate had handed her a role that she had no right to forsake.

“It is my fate and my mission, and I don’t have the right to step away. I understand that I’m in safety here, but all the people who voted for me in Belarus ... need me as a symbol. They need the person they voted for. I couldn’t betray my people.”

She has been making regular video appeals to try to keep up the protests’ momentum. She said she had also fielded phone calls from world leaders who had asked her how they could help.

None gave concrete promises to support her, and none said they regarded her as the president-elect.

“I understand that they have no right and possibility to interfere in internal affairs of our country ... I asked everybody to respect the independence of our country, the sovereignty of our country”, she said.

<h3>‘SOONER OR LATER’</h3>

When asked which countries had called, she referenced Canada, the United States, Britain, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and others.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose country has close ties with Belarus, had not been in touch, and Tsikhanouskaya said she would not attempt to reach him herself.

“I don’t have anything to ask him about, just (to respect) sovereignty,” she said. “Any future relationship with Russia or other countries would be decided by people and by the new president.”

Tsikhanouskaya said that Lukashenko’s authority was badly damaged and that things would be different in Belarus, even if he managed to cling to power for now.

Lukashenko said on Saturday he would close factories that have seen worker protests, the Russian RIA news agency reported, his latest attempt to quell a wave of opposition rallies since the contested elections.

“Belarusian people have changed during this year. The Belarusian people won’t be able to accept him as the new president, and will not allow him to treat him as they did before,” she said.

“I’m sure that sooner or later he will have to leave.”

Exiled Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya sees herself as a symbol of change whose role is to help deliver new elections as President Alexander Lukashenko will have to quit sooner or later, she told Reuters on Saturday.

Exiled Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya sees herself as a symbol of change whose role is to help deliver new elections as President Alexander Lukashenko will have to quit sooner or later, she told Reuters on Saturday. Speaking in Lithuania where she and her two children have fled for security reasons, Tsikhanouskaya said she felt duty-bound to do what she could to support protesters in her home country but would not run for president again. “During the campaign I didn’t see myself as a politician but I pushed myself forward,” she said. “I don’t see myself in politics. I am not a politician.” Tens of thousands of Belarusians have taken to the streets for nearly two weeks to protest against what they believe was a rigged Aug. 9 presidential election. They want veteran leader Lukashenko to quit so new elections can be held. Tsikhanouskaya, who ran in the election against Lukashenko after her husband, a well-known video blogger, was jailed, said fate had handed her a role that she had no right to forsake. “It is my fate and my mission, and I don’t have the right to step away. I understand that I’m in safety here, but all the people who voted for me in Belarus ... need me as a symbol. They need the person they voted for. I couldn’t betray my people.” She has been making regular video appeals to try to keep up the protests’ momentum. She said she had also fielded phone calls from world leaders who had asked her how they could help. None gave concrete promises to support her, and none said they regarded her as the president-elect. “I understand that they have no right and possibility to interfere in internal affairs of our country ... I asked everybody to respect the independence of our country, the sovereignty of our country”, she said. ‘SOONER OR LATER’ When asked which countries had called, she referenced Canada, the United States, Britain, Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and others. Russian President Vladimir Putin, whose country has close ties with Belarus, had not been in touch, and Tsikhanouskaya said she would not attempt to reach him herself. “I don’t have anything to ask him about, just (to respect) sovereignty,” she said. “Any future relationship with Russia or other countries would be decided by people and by the new president.” Tsikhanouskaya said that Lukashenko’s authority was badly damaged and that things would be different in Belarus, even if he managed to cling to power for now. Lukashenko said on Saturday he would close factories that have seen worker protests, the Russian RIA news agency reported, his latest attempt to quell a wave of opposition rallies since the contested elections. “Belarusian people have changed during this year. The Belarusian people won’t be able to accept him as the new president, and will not allow him to treat him as they did before,” she said. “I’m sure that sooner or later he will have to leave.”

Belarusian opposition leader sees herself as a symbol of change

Three decades after their gesture of defiance against the Soviet Union, Baltic residents are linking arms once again on Sunday in solidarity with protesters in Belarus.

On August 23, 1989 millions formed a human chain through the three Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia to express their desire for independence.

On Sunday, thousands are expected to join a human chain stretching some 30 kilometres (19 miles) from the Lithuanian capital Vilnius to the border with Belarus.

Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, the opposition figurehead who fled from Belarus to Lithuania after a disputed presidential election, has said she may attend.

"It means a lot not only for me but all Belarusian people and they feel this support... It's very beautiful," she told AFP in an interview on Saturday.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, who took part in the original Baltic Way human chain, is also expected to attend the demonstration starting at 1600 GMT.

"Today is the time for our Belarusian brothers to express their desire for freedom. The Freedom Way is our extended hand for them," he told AFP.

Organisers say some 50,000 people are expected.

In Latvia, hundreds of campaigners marched along the border with Belarus and then formed a human chain in the village of Piedruja as Belarusian border guards looked on from the other side of the Daugava River.

"This is our Baltic way to express solidarity with all the people in Belarus," Inese Vaivare, the main organiser, told the cheering crowd in Piedruja.

Peteris Vasks, a Latvian composer who attended the event, said: "We don't have to live in a cowardly egoism, we can support people of other countries if they want to enjoy basic civic liberties like we do!"

More human chains are planned in the Estonian capital Tallinn and along the iconic Charles Bridge in Prague.

The Baltic Way human chain of 1989 has inspired similar initiatives by freedom-seekers the world over even in recent years -- from Hong Kong to Catalonia to Taiwan.

The original was 600 kilometres long and sent the strongest signal to date that the Soviet-occupied Baltic states were on the road towards restored independence, which they all won two years later.

All three are now EU and NATO members.

The Lithuanian human chain will start in Cathedral Square in Vilnius and end at the Medininkai border post -- the site of clashes with Soviet law enforcement in 1991 after Lithuania declared its independence.

Kiryl Krivicki, a 20-year-old Belarusian student living in Vilnius said the event "could become the same metaphor of freedom" as the one in 1989.

Tatsiana Chulitskaia, 44, a Belarusian researcher at Vytautas Magnus University, said: "It is important, even if it is a symbolic support.

"It is essential for Belarusians not to feel alone."

Three decades after their gesture of defiance against the Soviet Union, Baltic residents are linking arms once again on Sunday in solidarity with protesters in Belarus.

Three decades after their gesture of defiance against the Soviet Union, Baltic residents are linking arms once again on Sunday in solidarity with protesters in Belarus. On August 23, 1989 millions formed a human chain through the three Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia to express their desire for independence. On Sunday, thousands are expected to join a human chain stretching some 30 kilometres (19 miles) from the Lithuanian capital Vilnius to the border with Belarus. Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, the opposition figurehead who fled from Belarus to Lithuania after a disputed presidential election, has said she may attend. "It means a lot not only for me but all Belarusian people and they feel this support... It's very beautiful," she told AFP in an interview on Saturday. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda, who took part in the original Baltic Way human chain, is also expected to attend the demonstration starting at 1600 GMT. "Today is the time for our Belarusian brothers to express their desire for freedom. The Freedom Way is our extended hand for them," he told AFP. Organisers say some 50,000 people are expected. In Latvia, hundreds of campaigners marched along the border with Belarus and then formed a human chain in the village of Piedruja as Belarusian border guards looked on from the other side of the Daugava River. "This is our Baltic way to express solidarity with all the people in Belarus," Inese Vaivare, the main organiser, told the cheering crowd in Piedruja. Peteris Vasks, a Latvian composer who attended the event, said: "We don't have to live in a cowardly egoism, we can support people of other countries if they want to enjoy basic civic liberties like we do!" More human chains are planned in the Estonian capital Tallinn and along the iconic Charles Bridge in Prague. The Baltic Way human chain of 1989 has inspired similar initiatives by freedom-seekers the world over even in recent years -- from Hong Kong to Catalonia to Taiwan. The original was 600 kilometres long and sent the strongest signal to date that the Soviet-occupied Baltic states were on the road towards restored independence, which they all won two years later. All three are now EU and NATO members. The Lithuanian human chain will start in Cathedral Square in Vilnius and end at the Medininkai border post -- the site of clashes with Soviet law enforcement in 1991 after Lithuania declared its independence. Kiryl Krivicki, a 20-year-old Belarusian student living in Vilnius said the event "could become the same metaphor of freedom" as the one in 1989. Tatsiana Chulitskaia, 44, a Belarusian researcher at Vytautas Magnus University, said: "It is important, even if it is a symbolic support. "It is essential for Belarusians not to feel alone."

Baltics link arms again in solidarity with Belarus

EU's top diplomat Josep Borell on Sunday warned that Belarus should not be allowed to become a "second Ukraine" and said it was necessary to deal with its long-time President Alexander Lukashenko.

EU's top diplomat Josep Borell on Sunday warned that Belarus should not be allowed to become a "second Ukraine" and said it was necessary to deal with its long-time President Alexander Lukashenko. Also read: Lukashenko warns of NATO troops near borders as Belarus opposition calls for Minsk rally Results of Belarus' presidential elections that were held on August 9 is rejected by Brussels. The elections have sparked massive protests in the country against President Alexander Lukashenko. But in Ukraine "tensions between Europe and Russia were settled with shooting, with violence and the disintegration of Ukraine's territory that has lasted to this day," Borell told the newspaper in Sunday edition of El Pais. "The Belarusians' problem today isn't to choose between Russia and Europe, it's to obtain liberty and democracy," he added. "Europe has no intention of turning Belarus into a second Ukraine." Ties between the European capitals and Moscow strained ever since Russia annexed Crimea in 2014, prompting the EU to impose sanctions that remain in place today. Borell compared Lukashenko's situation to that of Venezuelan leader Maduro and urged the EU to maintain the dialogue with the Belarusian leader. "Maduro and Lukashenko are in exactly the same situation. We don't recognise their elections as legitimate," Borell said. "Nevertheless, whether we like it or not they control the government and we have to continue dealing with them, although we don't recognise their democratic legitimacy." (Inputs from AFP)

EU's top diplomat warns Belarus to avoid being 'second Ukraine'

Belarusian strongman Alexander Lukashenko on Saturday ordered his defence minister to take "stringent measures" to defend the country's territorial integrity after mass protests erupted against his claim to election victory.&nbsp;

The 65-year-old authoritarian leader, who said he won a sixth presidential term with 80 percent of the vote in the August 9 ballot, made the comments during an inspection of military units in Grodno, near Belarus's border with Poland, according to the president's press service.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-stage-flower-protest-in-belarus-as-eu-weighs-sanctions-320218">Thousands stage flower protest in Belarus as EU weighs sanctions</a>

Lukashenko denounced recent mass protests, which he said were receiving support from Western countries, and ordered the army to defend western Belarus, which he described as "a pearl".

"It involves taking the most stringent measures to protect the territorial integrity of our country," Lukashenko said.

His visit comes ahead of large-scale military exercises planned in the Grodno region between August 28 and 31.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/water-cannons-tear-gas-stun-grenades-protesters-clash-with-belarus-police-after-election-results-319520">Water cannons, tear gas, stun grenades: Protesters clash with Belarus police after election results</a>

Opponents of Europe's longest serving leader have organised strikes and the largest demonstrations in the ex-Soviet country's recent history to protest his re-election and demand that he stand down.&nbsp;

The authorities have opened a criminal investigation into the opposition's Coordination Council, whose members are seeking new elections and a peaceful transition of power.

Lukashenko has rejected the idea of holding another ballot, dismissed calls to resign and accused the opposition of attempting to seize power. On Friday he vowed to "solve the problem" of the protest movement.

Exiled opposition leader and political newcomer, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya said this week that Belarusians would "never accept the current leadership again" after Lukashenko's crackdown on mass protests following the disputed election.

Belarusian strongman Alexander Lukashenko on Saturday ordered his defence minister to take "stringent measures" to defend the country's territorial integrity after mass protests erupted against his claim to election victory.

Belarusian strongman Alexander Lukashenko on Saturday ordered his defence minister to take "stringent measures" to defend the country's territorial integrity after mass protests erupted against his claim to election victory. The 65-year-old authoritarian leader, who said he won a sixth presidential term with 80 percent of the vote in the August 9 ballot, made the comments during an inspection of military units in Grodno, near Belarus's border with Poland, according to the president's press service. Also see: Thousands stage flower protest in Belarus as EU weighs sanctions Lukashenko denounced recent mass protests, which he said were receiving support from Western countries, and ordered the army to defend western Belarus, which he described as "a pearl". "It involves taking the most stringent measures to protect the territorial integrity of our country," Lukashenko said. His visit comes ahead of large-scale military exercises planned in the Grodno region between August 28 and 31. Also see: Water cannons, tear gas, stun grenades: Protesters clash with Belarus police after election results Opponents of Europe's longest serving leader have organised strikes and the largest demonstrations in the ex-Soviet country's recent history to protest his re-election and demand that he stand down. The authorities have opened a criminal investigation into the opposition's Coordination Council, whose members are seeking new elections and a peaceful transition of power. Lukashenko has rejected the idea of holding another ballot, dismissed calls to resign and accused the opposition of attempting to seize power. On Friday he vowed to "solve the problem" of the protest movement. Exiled opposition leader and political newcomer, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya said this week that Belarusians would "never accept the current leadership again" after Lukashenko's crackdown on mass protests following the disputed election.

Belarus crisis: Lukashenko orders army to defend 'territorial integrity'

Around 1,500 people marched through the streets of the Russian far eastern city of Khabarovsk on Saturday, marking the seventh consecutive weekend of protests after the region`s governor was detained in early July.

Residents of Khabarovsk, 6,110 km (3,800 miles) east of Moscow, have protested since the detention of Sergei Furgal, the region`s popular governor, on July 9 in connection with murder charges which he denies.

His supporters say the detention is politically motivated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-critic-alexei-navalny-airlifted-to-germany-condition-stable-after-landing-322296">Also read:&nbsp;Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny airlifted to Germany; condition stable after landing</a>

People marched on Saturday with posters reading "Freedom to Furgal" and "Belarus - Khabarovsk is with you" - a sign of support for opposition rallies in Belarus protesting against the alleged rigging of its presidential election.

On Saturday, posters wishing recovery for Alexei Navalny, a Kremlin critic who collapsed on a plane on Thursday after drinking tea that his allies believe was laced with poison, were also seen among the people marching in Khabarovsk.

Navalny was evacuated from the Siberian city of Omsk and brought to Germany for medical treatment on Saturday.

Regional authorities estimated around 1,500 people took part in Saturday`s march, a smaller turnout than in previous weeks.

Around 1,500 people marched through the streets of the Russian far eastern city of Khabarovsk on Saturday, marking the seventh consecutive weekend of protests after the region`s governor was detained in early July.

Around 1,500 people marched through the streets of the Russian far eastern city of Khabarovsk on Saturday, marking the seventh consecutive weekend of protests after the region`s governor was detained in early July. Residents of Khabarovsk, 6,110 km (3,800 miles) east of Moscow, have protested since the detention of Sergei Furgal, the region`s popular governor, on July 9 in connection with murder charges which he denies. His supporters say the detention is politically motivated. Also read: Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny airlifted to Germany; condition stable after landing People marched on Saturday with posters reading "Freedom to Furgal" and "Belarus - Khabarovsk is with you" - a sign of support for opposition rallies in Belarus protesting against the alleged rigging of its presidential election. On Saturday, posters wishing recovery for Alexei Navalny, a Kremlin critic who collapsed on a plane on Thursday after drinking tea that his allies believe was laced with poison, were also seen among the people marching in Khabarovsk. Navalny was evacuated from the Siberian city of Omsk and brought to Germany for medical treatment on Saturday. Regional authorities estimated around 1,500 people took part in Saturday`s march, a smaller turnout than in previous weeks.

Protesters hold seventh anti-Kremlin march over detained governor

Belarusian politician Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who has led the biggest challenge to Alexander Lukashenko's 26-year rule of Belarus, said in an interview aired on Friday that would not run for the presidency if the country holds new elections.

Tsikhanouskaya, who became Lukashenko's opposition rival in the contested Aug. 9 election in which he was declared the victor, has fled to neighbouring Lithuania. She emerged from obscurity to take her husband Siarhei Tsikhanouski's place in the election campaign after he was jailed in May.

"I'm not planning to run myself," Tsikhanouskaya said in an interview with Belsat TV when asked if she or her husband, a well-known video blogger, would run for the presidency if new elections are held as the opposition has sought.

"More than enough," Tsikhanouskaya, who led some of the biggest protests against Lukashenko since he came to power with the fall of the Soviet Union, replied when asked if she had enough of politics.

Mass protests broke out against Lukashenko, accusing him of rigging the election, allegations that he denies.

Tsikhanouskaya said the release of political prisoners is one of the demands of protesters and "new fair transparent elections can restore justice."

The 37-year-old former English teacher was never supposed to be the leader of popular resistance to Lukashenko, a former Soviet collective farm boss. But when her husband was jailed and other candidates were barred from running in the election, Tsikhanouskaya became the prime challenger to Lukashenko, whose claims of a landslide victory were disputed by the opposition.

Earlier this week, Tsikhanouskaya had said she was ready to lead Belarus, a country of 9.5 million, and had called for the creation of a legal mechanism to ensure that a new fair presidential election could be held. 
&nbsp;

Belarusian politician Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who has led the biggest challenge to Alexander Lukashenko's 26-year rule of Belarus, said in an interview aired on Friday that would not run for the presidency if the country holds new elections.

Belarusian politician Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who has led the biggest challenge to Alexander Lukashenko's 26-year rule of Belarus, said in an interview aired on Friday that would not run for the presidency if the country holds new elections. Tsikhanouskaya, who became Lukashenko's opposition rival in the contested Aug. 9 election in which he was declared the victor, has fled to neighbouring Lithuania. She emerged from obscurity to take her husband Siarhei Tsikhanouski's place in the election campaign after he was jailed in May. "I'm not planning to run myself," Tsikhanouskaya said in an interview with Belsat TV when asked if she or her husband, a well-known video blogger, would run for the presidency if new elections are held as the opposition has sought. "More than enough," Tsikhanouskaya, who led some of the biggest protests against Lukashenko since he came to power with the fall of the Soviet Union, replied when asked if she had enough of politics. Mass protests broke out against Lukashenko, accusing him of rigging the election, allegations that he denies. Tsikhanouskaya said the release of political prisoners is one of the demands of protesters and "new fair transparent elections can restore justice." The 37-year-old former English teacher was never supposed to be the leader of popular resistance to Lukashenko, a former Soviet collective farm boss. But when her husband was jailed and other candidates were barred from running in the election, Tsikhanouskaya became the prime challenger to Lukashenko, whose claims of a landslide victory were disputed by the opposition. Earlier this week, Tsikhanouskaya had said she was ready to lead Belarus, a country of 9.5 million, and had called for the creation of a legal mechanism to ensure that a new fair presidential election could be held.

Tsikhanouskaya says she would not seek Belarus presidency if new elections held

Belarus locals formed a human chain leading to a detention center in Minsk to protest against the corrupt government and the re-election of the&nbsp;President Alexander Lukashenko.&nbsp;

Belarus opposition challenger Svetlana Tikhanovskaya voiced defiance on Friday after President Alexander Lukashenko's government opened a criminal probe into attempts to "seize power".

In her first public comments since fleeing to Lithuania, Tikhanovskaya said Belarusians would "never accept the current leadership again" after a crackdown on mass protests following a disputed August 9 election.

"They can never forgive and forget all the violence that our citizens have suffered," she said.

Tikhanovskaya, a political novice who only put forward her candidacy when her blogger husband was arrested ahead of the vote, also told reporters she loved her homeland and planned to return "when I feel safe there".

"It should be clear to the president that there is a need for change. I hope that good sense prevails and the people will be heard and there will be new elections," she said, declining to comment on whether she would be a candidate in any fresh vote.

A nervous-looking Tikhanovskaya also refused to answer questions about her own safety or about what compelled her to leave Belarus in the aftermath of the election.

"As for threats, you know I don't think I would like to discuss this question now," she said in English.

"Every person in our country feels fear and is scared now, but it's our mission to step over all our fears and move further."

Supporters and the Lithuanian government have said she had little choice but to leave after coming under intense pressure from the authorities during a meeting at the Central Election Commission in Minsk.

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'Fear and falsehoods'

Tikhanovskaya's campaign helped to inspire unprecedented mass protests against Lukashenko's 26-year rule in the former Soviet republic.

The strongman claimed a sixth term with 80 per cent of the vote in the poll. &nbsp;

The EU has rejected Lukashenko's re-election and is planning sanctions against those it holds responsible for violence against protesters.

Lukashenko said on Friday he would resolve the political crisis "in the coming days".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-urges-dialogue-between-belarusian-authorities-and-citizens-to-resolve-crisis-322203">Also read:&nbsp;Russia urges dialogue between Belarusian authorities and citizens to resolve crisis</a>

He also accused the United States of "directing" the anti-government protesters in order to create a buffer zone with Belarus, the three Baltic states and Ukraine between Russia.

Asked about Russian support for Lukashenko, Tikhanovskaya said: "I call on all countries of the world to respect the sovereignty of the Republic of Belarus."

"We don't want to live in fear and falsehoods any more," she said, calling for striking workers to liaise with a Coordination Council she set up to organise pro-democracy protests.

"The creation of the Coordination Council is aimed at negotiating a peaceful handover of power."

'Intimidation' accusation

Belarus on Thursday opened a criminal probe into the Coordination Council, saying it was an unconstitutional attempt to topple Lukashenko.

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Lawyer Maxim Znak, a member of the council, was cheered as he arrived for questioning at the Minsk offices of the investigative committee, supporters chanting: "One for all, all for one!"

The EU on Friday demanded that Belarus halt the investigation, accusing the government of "intimidation".

"The Coordination Council, which consists of representatives of different parts of Belarusian society, reached out to the authorities for a dialogue and the authorities answered with the opening of a criminal case," EU foreign affairs spokeswoman Nabila Massrali said in a statement.

"In doing so, the Belarusian state authorities have once again reverted to intimidation based on political grounds," she said.

"We expect the Belarusian authorities to stop the criminal case and instead to engage in a dialogue in view of moving towards a peaceful way out of the current crisis."

The United Nations on Friday said it was "seriously concerned" about more than 100 people still being detained in Belarus in connection with the protests, even though several thousand more have been released.

"We call on the authorities in Belarus to immediately release all those who have been unlawfully or arbitrarily detained," said Elizabeth Throssel, a spokeswoman for the UN human rights office.

Belarus locals formed a human chain leading to a detention center in Minsk to protest against the corrupt government and the re-election of the President Alexander Lukashenko.

Belarus locals formed a human chain leading to a detention center in Minsk to protest against the corrupt government and the re-election of the President Alexander Lukashenko. Belarus opposition challenger Svetlana Tikhanovskaya voiced defiance on Friday after President Alexander Lukashenko's government opened a criminal probe into attempts to "seize power". In her first public comments since fleeing to Lithuania, Tikhanovskaya said Belarusians would "never accept the current leadership again" after a crackdown on mass protests following a disputed August 9 election. "They can never forgive and forget all the violence that our citizens have suffered," she said. Tikhanovskaya, a political novice who only put forward her candidacy when her blogger husband was arrested ahead of the vote, also told reporters she loved her homeland and planned to return "when I feel safe there". "It should be clear to the president that there is a need for change. I hope that good sense prevails and the people will be heard and there will be new elections," she said, declining to comment on whether she would be a candidate in any fresh vote. A nervous-looking Tikhanovskaya also refused to answer questions about her own safety or about what compelled her to leave Belarus in the aftermath of the election. "As for threats, you know I don't think I would like to discuss this question now," she said in English. "Every person in our country feels fear and is scared now, but it's our mission to step over all our fears and move further." Supporters and the Lithuanian government have said she had little choice but to leave after coming under intense pressure from the authorities during a meeting at the Central Election Commission in Minsk. × 'Fear and falsehoods' Tikhanovskaya's campaign helped to inspire unprecedented mass protests against Lukashenko's 26-year rule in the former Soviet republic. The strongman claimed a sixth term with 80 per cent of the vote in the poll. The EU has rejected Lukashenko's re-election and is planning sanctions against those it holds responsible for violence against protesters. Lukashenko said on Friday he would resolve the political crisis "in the coming days". Also read: Russia urges dialogue between Belarusian authorities and citizens to resolve crisis He also accused the United States of "directing" the anti-government protesters in order to create a buffer zone with Belarus, the three Baltic states and Ukraine between Russia. Asked about Russian support for Lukashenko, Tikhanovskaya said: "I call on all countries of the world to respect the sovereignty of the Republic of Belarus." "We don't want to live in fear and falsehoods any more," she said, calling for striking workers to liaise with a Coordination Council she set up to organise pro-democracy protests. "The creation of the Coordination Council is aimed at negotiating a peaceful handover of power." 'Intimidation' accusation Belarus on Thursday opened a criminal probe into the Coordination Council, saying it was an unconstitutional attempt to topple Lukashenko. × Lawyer Maxim Znak, a member of the council, was cheered as he arrived for questioning at the Minsk offices of the investigative committee, supporters chanting: "One for all, all for one!" The EU on Friday demanded that Belarus halt the investigation, accusing the government of "intimidation". "The Coordination Council, which consists of representatives of different parts of Belarusian society, reached out to the authorities for a dialogue and the authorities answered with the opening of a criminal case," EU foreign affairs spokeswoman Nabila Massrali said in a statement. "In doing so, the Belarusian state authorities have once again reverted to intimidation based on political grounds," she said. "We expect the Belarusian authorities to stop the criminal case and instead to engage in a dialogue in view of moving towards a peaceful way out of the current crisis." The United Nations on Friday said it was "seriously concerned" about more than 100 people still being detained in Belarus in connection with the protests, even though several thousand more have been released. "We call on the authorities in Belarus to immediately release all those who have been unlawfully or arbitrarily detained," said Elizabeth Throssel, a spokeswoman for the UN human rights office.

Belarus: Protesters form human chain leading to a detention centre

President Vladimir Putin and the Russian Security Council agreed at a meeting on Friday that the Belarusian authorities and its people should enter into dialogue to resolve the political crisis.

Russia is a close ally of neighbouring Belarus where nationwide anti-government protests erupted earlier this month over election rigging allegations at a disputed vote.

Two leading members of a newly formed opposition council in the country were questioned&nbsp;in a criminal case that accuses the body of trying to seize power from&nbsp;Lukashenko.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/macron-offers-eu-mediation-with-russia-on-belarus-crisis-322006" hreflang="en">Macron offers EU mediation with Russia on Belarus crisis</a>

Dozens of supporters accompanied Maksim Znak and Sarhey Dyleuski as they arrived for questioning at the headquarters of the Investigative Committee.&nbsp;

The Coordinating Committee was launched this week with the self-described aim of negotiating a transfer of power amid the largest political crisis in Belarus since the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Lukashenko's main opponent, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, has fled to neighbouring Lithuania, where she has released a steady stream of video messages calling on her followers to rise up peacefully. On Friday she called for more workers to go on strike to protest against the election result.

Joined by a treaty that proclaims, on paper, a "union state" with a Soviet-style red flag, Russia and Belarus usually have no border controls, and are culturally, linguistically and economically intertwined. Putin has pushed hard to make the union state more of a political and economic reality.

Russia has repeatedly asked Lukashenko to let it open an air base in Belarus, something he has refused in the past.

Lukashenko, in power for 26 years, was declared the winner of an August&nbsp;9 presidential election, but tens of thousands of protesters have taken to the streets saying the election is rigged.

A police crackdown does not seem to have intimidated the protesters and opposition has spread to include strikes at state factories long seen as bastions of Lukashenko's support.

President Vladimir Putin and the Russian Security Council agreed at a meeting on Friday that the Belarusian authorities and its people should enter into dialogue to resolve the political crisis.

President Vladimir Putin and the Russian Security Council agreed at a meeting on Friday that the Belarusian authorities and its people should enter into dialogue to resolve the political crisis. Russia is a close ally of neighbouring Belarus where nationwide anti-government protests erupted earlier this month over election rigging allegations at a disputed vote. Two leading members of a newly formed opposition council in the country were questioned in a criminal case that accuses the body of trying to seize power from Lukashenko. Also read: Macron offers EU mediation with Russia on Belarus crisis Dozens of supporters accompanied Maksim Znak and Sarhey Dyleuski as they arrived for questioning at the headquarters of the Investigative Committee. The Coordinating Committee was launched this week with the self-described aim of negotiating a transfer of power amid the largest political crisis in Belarus since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Lukashenko's main opponent, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, has fled to neighbouring Lithuania, where she has released a steady stream of video messages calling on her followers to rise up peacefully. On Friday she called for more workers to go on strike to protest against the election result. Joined by a treaty that proclaims, on paper, a "union state" with a Soviet-style red flag, Russia and Belarus usually have no border controls, and are culturally, linguistically and economically intertwined. Putin has pushed hard to make the union state more of a political and economic reality. Russia has repeatedly asked Lukashenko to let it open an air base in Belarus, something he has refused in the past. Lukashenko, in power for 26 years, was declared the winner of an August 9 presidential election, but tens of thousands of protesters have taken to the streets saying the election is rigged. A police crackdown does not seem to have intimidated the protesters and opposition has spread to include strikes at state factories long seen as bastions of Lukashenko's support.

Russia urges dialogue between Belarusian authorities and citizens to resolve crisis

French President Emmanuel Macron is offering to mediate in Belarus to resolve the country's ongoing power struggle. Watch report. The French President and German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed the crisis at Macron's summer retreat.

French President offers to mediate in Belarus power struggle

Amid the political crisis in Belarus, French President Emmanuel Macron has offered EU mediation along with Russia even as German Chancellor said Lukashenko "has not sought to contact" EU leaders.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/focus-on-your-own-issues-echoes-lukashenko-while-eu-convenes-to-discuss-belarus-crisis-321732">Also Read:&nbsp;'Focus on your own issues', echoes Lukashenko while EU convenes to discuss Belarus crisis</a>

On Thursday, Belarus opened criminal investigation into attempts by the Opposition to "seize power" as the situation in the country continues to go downhill after the August 9 election which was rejected by the Opposition demanding a new election.

Watch:

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In a statement, Macron who is trying to find a solution, said: "A dialogue between the authorities, the opposition and civil society is essential... We hope that this dialogue can be established by the Belarusians themselves. But the European Union stands ready to accompany it, if our role of mediation can be useful and is desired by the Belarusians, with other institutions... and including Russia," Macron said as he met German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

EU Council chief Charles Michel said that had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin to resolve the crisis through talks.

"There is only one way forward: through political inclusive dialogue and a peaceful and democratic process," Michel said.

The European Union had earlier rejected the result of the presidential election alleging that there was widespread vote-rigging and suppression of protests in the country even as protesters marched through central Minsk and gathered in Independence Square demanding Lukashenko to leave.&nbsp;

Amid the peace moves by Macron, Lukashenko ordered his security services to clamp down on any more unrest. However, Belarus's foreign minister Vladimir Makei said that "change is needed" in the country.

"No one is denying that, but not at the cost of civil confrontation or a revolution," &nbsp;Makei said.

Amid the political crisis in Belarus, French President Emmanuel Macron has offered EU mediation along with Russia even as German Chancellor said Lukashenko "has not sought to contact" EU leaders.

Amid the political crisis in Belarus, French President Emmanuel Macron has offered EU mediation along with Russia even as German Chancellor said Lukashenko "has not sought to contact" EU leaders. Also Read: 'Focus on your own issues', echoes Lukashenko while EU convenes to discuss Belarus crisis On Thursday, Belarus opened criminal investigation into attempts by the Opposition to "seize power" as the situation in the country continues to go downhill after the August 9 election which was rejected by the Opposition demanding a new election. Watch: In a statement, Macron who is trying to find a solution, said: "A dialogue between the authorities, the opposition and civil society is essential... We hope that this dialogue can be established by the Belarusians themselves. But the European Union stands ready to accompany it, if our role of mediation can be useful and is desired by the Belarusians, with other institutions... and including Russia," Macron said as he met German Chancellor Angela Merkel. EU Council chief Charles Michel said that had requested Russian President Vladimir Putin to resolve the crisis through talks. "There is only one way forward: through political inclusive dialogue and a peaceful and democratic process," Michel said. The European Union had earlier rejected the result of the presidential election alleging that there was widespread vote-rigging and suppression of protests in the country even as protesters marched through central Minsk and gathered in Independence Square demanding Lukashenko to leave. Amid the peace moves by Macron, Lukashenko ordered his security services to clamp down on any more unrest. However, Belarus's foreign minister Vladimir Makei said that "change is needed" in the country. "No one is denying that, but not at the cost of civil confrontation or a revolution," Makei said.

Macron offers EU mediation with Russia on Belarus crisis

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Barack Obama blasts Trump's 'reality show' presidency; presses fight for Biden Former President of the United States Barack Obama launched a blistering attack on President Donald Trump on Wednesday and urged Americans to elect Democrat Joe Biden in November to end the chaos he said had been created during the four years of Trump’s presidency.

Barack Obama blasts Trump's 'reality show' presidency; presses fight for Biden Former President of the United States Barack Obama launched a blistering attack on President Donald Trump on Wednesday and urged Americans to elect Democrat Joe Biden in November to end the chaos he said had been created during the four years of Trump’s presidency. China state newspapers support Wuhan park pool party after pictures go viral Chinese state newspapers have showed allegiance towards an amusement park in the central city of Wuhan after pictures of a densely packed pool party at one of the city's park went viral overseas amid concerns about the spread of COVID-19. Peace must be achieved with Palestinians, then all things possible: Saudi Arabia on Israel Saudi Arabia said Wednesday it would not follow the United Arab Emirates and establish diplomatic ties with Israel until the Jewish state had sealed a peace accord with the Palestinians.

Morning news brief: Obama slams Trump, Afghan peace talks and more

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