Earlier this week Alexander Lukashenko took office for the 6th consecutive term as the President of Belarus. However, the people of Belarus have completely rejected the poll results. Watch report.

Belarus Protests: EU to discuss sanctions on Belarus

Warning Belarusian President of a civil war, Nobel laureate Svetlana Alexievich asked Alexander Lukashenko to step down peacefully.&nbsp;

Alexievich was awarded the 2015 Nobel Literature Prize for her work which detailed the plight of people under the repressive Soviet rule.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarusians-should-have-the-freedoms-that-they-are-demanding-pompeo-319992">Belarusians should have the 'freedoms that they are demanding': Pompeo</a>

This was the first time the Nobel Prize-winning author commented on the protests that have erupted ever since Lukashenko won the controversial election in an interview to Radio Liberty/Radio Free Europe.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-president-lukashenko-refuses-to-relent-amid-protests-319806">Belarus President Lukashenko refuses to relent amid protests</a>

"Leave before it's too late, before you've thrown people into a terrible abyss, into the abyss of civil war," she said.&nbsp;

She further said that Lukashenko is obsessed with "power" which will "end up with blood" and blamed the authorities of "declaring war on their own people".&nbsp;

Expressing shock at the "inhumane, satanic" actions of riot police, Alexievich also hinted of Russian collaboration to deploy reinforcements.&nbsp;

She also spoke about frontline presidency candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, whom she backed ahead of the election, calling her a "symbol of change".&nbsp;

"She did what she could. I have nothing bad to say about her. Now let the men take the fore," the Nobel laureate said.&nbsp;

Alexievich also praised the protesters, saying: "I've simply fallen in love with my people over the last few weeks."

"These are completely different people, their strength is completely different. Before I used to be a bit disillusioned -- not now."

(With inputs from AFP)

Warning Belarusian President of a civil war, Nobel laureate Svetlana Alexievich asked Alexander Lukashenko to step down peacefully. Alexievich was awarded the 2015 Nobel Literature Prize for her work which detailed the plight of people under the repressive Soviet rule.

Warning Belarusian President of a civil war, Nobel laureate Svetlana Alexievich asked Alexander Lukashenko to step down peacefully. Alexievich was awarded the 2015 Nobel Literature Prize for her work which detailed the plight of people under the repressive Soviet rule. Also read | Belarusians should have the 'freedoms that they are demanding': Pompeo This was the first time the Nobel Prize-winning author commented on the protests that have erupted ever since Lukashenko won the controversial election in an interview to Radio Liberty/Radio Free Europe. Also read | Belarus President Lukashenko refuses to relent amid protests "Leave before it's too late, before you've thrown people into a terrible abyss, into the abyss of civil war," she said. She further said that Lukashenko is obsessed with "power" which will "end up with blood" and blamed the authorities of "declaring war on their own people". Expressing shock at the "inhumane, satanic" actions of riot police, Alexievich also hinted of Russian collaboration to deploy reinforcements. She also spoke about frontline presidency candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, whom she backed ahead of the election, calling her a "symbol of change". "She did what she could. I have nothing bad to say about her. Now let the men take the fore," the Nobel laureate said. Alexievich also praised the protesters, saying: "I've simply fallen in love with my people over the last few weeks." "These are completely different people, their strength is completely different. Before I used to be a bit disillusioned -- not now." (With inputs from AFP)

Belarus: Nobel laureate asks President Alexander Lukashenko to step down

Alexander Lukashenko's iron grip over Belarus is being threatened by thousands of protesters who are now demanding democratic reforms and rights. Watch report.

Belarus Protests: Hundreds of women march on the streets, Protester dies in custody

Thousands stage flower protest in Belarus as EU weighs sanctions

Belarusian police detained about 700 people on a fourth night of protests following President Alexander Lukasheko's contested election victory.

Security forces have clashed daily with protesters since Lukashenko claimed a landslide re-election victory in a vote on Sunday that his opponents say was rigged.

On Wednesday, in several parts of Minsk, groups of hundreds of people formed human chains.

Similar protests were held in at least five other cities.

Police dispersed protesters with tear gas, stun grenades, water cannons and rubber bullets and severely beat them with truncheons. Black-uniformed officers chased protesters into residential buildings and deliberately targetted journalists, beating many and breaking their cameras.

In three previous nights of protests, at least 6,000 people were detained and hundreds injured, according to the official count.

On Wednesday, protesters formed human chains and marched through the streets of Belarus carrying flowers.

A former Soviet collective farm manager, the 65-year-old Lukashenko has ruled Belarus for more than a quarter of a century but faces increasing anger over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, a sluggish economy and human rights.

Women dressed in white formed a human chain outside a covered food market in the capital Minsk, holding flowers in the air and chanting slogans, while a crowd also gathered outside a prison where protesters were being kept.

The Belarusian interior ministry said 51 protesters and 14 police officers had been injured in clashes on Tuesday night.

In Brest, a city in southwestern Belarus on the Polish border, police fired live rounds after some protesters it said were armed with metal bars ignored warning shots fired in the air, the ministry said. One person was injured. 
Lukashenko has accused the protesters of being in cahoots with foreign backers from Russia and elsewhere to topple his government, and compared them to criminal gangs.

Belarusian authorities earlier tied opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya's husband to a plot by suspected Russian mercenaries to destabilise the country ahead of the election. She denied the allegation in an interview with Reuters.

Tsikhanouskaya, a 37-year-old former English teacher who took on Lukashenko in the vote, has fled to neighbouring Lithuania to join her children there. She urged her compatriots not to oppose the police and to avoid putting their lives in danger.

But the protests continued into the evening on Wednesday as thousands took to the streets of the capital.

(with inputs from agencies)

Belarusian police detained about 700 people on a fourth night of protests following President Alexander Lukasheko's contested election victory. Security forces have clashed daily with protesters since Lukashenko claimed a landslide re-election victory in a vote on Sunday that his opponents say was rigged.

Belarusian police detained about 700 people on a fourth night of protests following President Alexander Lukasheko's contested election victory. Security forces have clashed daily with protesters since Lukashenko claimed a landslide re-election victory in a vote on Sunday that his opponents say was rigged. On Wednesday, in several parts of Minsk, groups of hundreds of people formed human chains. Similar protests were held in at least five other cities. Police dispersed protesters with tear gas, stun grenades, water cannons and rubber bullets and severely beat them with truncheons. Black-uniformed officers chased protesters into residential buildings and deliberately targetted journalists, beating many and breaking their cameras. In three previous nights of protests, at least 6,000 people were detained and hundreds injured, according to the official count. On Wednesday, protesters formed human chains and marched through the streets of Belarus carrying flowers. A former Soviet collective farm manager, the 65-year-old Lukashenko has ruled Belarus for more than a quarter of a century but faces increasing anger over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, a sluggish economy and human rights. Women dressed in white formed a human chain outside a covered food market in the capital Minsk, holding flowers in the air and chanting slogans, while a crowd also gathered outside a prison where protesters were being kept. The Belarusian interior ministry said 51 protesters and 14 police officers had been injured in clashes on Tuesday night. In Brest, a city in southwestern Belarus on the Polish border, police fired live rounds after some protesters it said were armed with metal bars ignored warning shots fired in the air, the ministry said. One person was injured. Lukashenko has accused the protesters of being in cahoots with foreign backers from Russia and elsewhere to topple his government, and compared them to criminal gangs. Belarusian authorities earlier tied opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya's husband to a plot by suspected Russian mercenaries to destabilise the country ahead of the election. She denied the allegation in an interview with Reuters. Tsikhanouskaya, a 37-year-old former English teacher who took on Lukashenko in the vote, has fled to neighbouring Lithuania to join her children there. She urged her compatriots not to oppose the police and to avoid putting their lives in danger. But the protests continued into the evening on Wednesday as thousands took to the streets of the capital. (with inputs from agencies)

Belarus says police detained about 700 protesters overnight

Belarus has erupted in protest against President Alexander Lukashenko. He is accused of rigging the election. Ready to begin his sixth term as president - Lukashenko is doing all he can to retain power. That includes forcing the opposition leader out of the country.

Gravitas: Europe's Last Dictator Refuses To Give Up Throne

Belarusians should be given "the freedoms that they are demanding", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday, urging authorities in the former Soviet republic not to harm protesters.

"We want the people of Belarus to have the freedoms that they are demanding... We urge that the non-violent protesters be protected, not harmed," Pompeo told reporters during a visit to Prague.

He was speaking alongside Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis, who called the events in Belarus "shocking" after a third night of protests following a disputed election in which President Alexander Lukashenko won a sixth term.

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>

He was visiting Prague as part of a European tour that will also take him to Austria, Slovenia and Poland.

The agenda for the trip includes countering Chinese company Huawei's role in 5G network construction, as well as energy security and US troop deployments in the region.

Police in&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;detained around 3,000 people at protests that erupted on Sunday following the presidential election, the&nbsp;Belarusian Interior Ministry said on Monday.

President Alexander Lukashenko won a landslide re-election victory, the central election commission said earlier, after bloody clashes between riot police and thousands of protesters who said the poll was rigged.

Belarusian opposition politician Svetlana Tikhanouskaya fled&nbsp;to Lithuania from&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;amid the protests to protect herself and her family, Lithuania's Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius said.

Belarusians should be given "the freedoms that they are demanding", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday, urging authorities in the former Soviet republic not to harm protesters.

Belarusians should be given "the freedoms that they are demanding", US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday, urging authorities in the former Soviet republic not to harm protesters. "We want the people of Belarus to have the freedoms that they are demanding... We urge that the non-violent protesters be protected, not harmed," Pompeo told reporters during a visit to Prague. He was speaking alongside Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis, who called the events in Belarus "shocking" after a third night of protests following a disputed election in which President Alexander Lukashenko won a sixth term. Also see: Water cannons, tear gas, stun grenades: Protesters clash with Belarus police after election results He was visiting Prague as part of a European tour that will also take him to Austria, Slovenia and Poland. The agenda for the trip includes countering Chinese company Huawei's role in 5G network construction, as well as energy security and US troop deployments in the region. Police in Belarus detained around 3,000 people at protests that erupted on Sunday following the presidential election, the Belarusian Interior Ministry said on Monday. President Alexander Lukashenko won a landslide re-election victory, the central election commission said earlier, after bloody clashes between riot police and thousands of protesters who said the poll was rigged. Belarusian opposition politician Svetlana Tikhanouskaya fled to Lithuania from Belarus amid the protests to protect herself and her family, Lithuania's Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius said.

Belarusians should have the 'freedoms that they are demanding': Pompeo

After questions were raised by some European nations, the United States has also expressed its concerns on Monday over the presidential election in Belarus.

US President Donald Trump's press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said: "intimidation of opposition candidates and the detention of peaceful protesters" were among several factors that "marred the process", in a reference to the elections.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-election-challenger-demands-lukashenko-hand-over-power-319443">Belarus election challenger demands Lukashenko 'hand over power'</a>

"We urge the Belarussian government to respect the right to peaceably assemble and refrain from use of force."&nbsp;

In Pics |&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>

The comments from the US came after thousands on Sunday protested in Minsk and other Belarusian cities, refusing to accept the election result which gave victory to incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko with over 80 per cent votes.

The protesters clashed with cops too, which led to detention of some 3,000 people and cops using violence to disperse the demonstrations.

There were calls for protests on Monday too in Minsk and hundreds participated too, but several areas which were part of demonstrations yesterday in the capital city were sealed off.&nbsp;

The police used stun grenades, water cannon and rubber bullets to disperse the demonstrators across the country.&nbsp;

However, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who was the biggest threat to Lukashenko, said she would not be joining protests, despite calling elections rigged and declaring herself as the winner.&nbsp;

"The authorities should think about how to peacefully hand over power to us," said Tikhanovskaya in a press conference held on Monday.&nbsp;

European countries doubted the election results, with Britain saying the polls were "seriously flawed" and asked officials to "refrain from further acts of violence".

Germany also said that the elections raised "strong doubts", while France urged for restraint.&nbsp;

However, Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping congratulated Lukashenko, who is in power for decades.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After questions were raised by some European nations, the United States has also expressed its concerns on Monday over the presidential election in Belarus. US President Donald Trump's press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said: "intimidation of opposition candidates and the detention of peaceful protesters" were among several factors that "marred the process", in a reference to the elections.

After questions were raised by some European nations, the United States has also expressed its concerns on Monday over the presidential election in Belarus. US President Donald Trump's press secretary Kayleigh McEnany said: "intimidation of opposition candidates and the detention of peaceful protesters" were among several factors that "marred the process", in a reference to the elections. Also read | Belarus election challenger demands Lukashenko 'hand over power' "We urge the Belarussian government to respect the right to peaceably assemble and refrain from use of force." In Pics | Water cannons, tear gas, stun grenades: Protesters clash with Belarus police after election results The comments from the US came after thousands on Sunday protested in Minsk and other Belarusian cities, refusing to accept the election result which gave victory to incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko with over 80 per cent votes. The protesters clashed with cops too, which led to detention of some 3,000 people and cops using violence to disperse the demonstrations. There were calls for protests on Monday too in Minsk and hundreds participated too, but several areas which were part of demonstrations yesterday in the capital city were sealed off. The police used stun grenades, water cannon and rubber bullets to disperse the demonstrators across the country. However, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who was the biggest threat to Lukashenko, said she would not be joining protests, despite calling elections rigged and declaring herself as the winner. "The authorities should think about how to peacefully hand over power to us," said Tikhanovskaya in a press conference held on Monday. European countries doubted the election results, with Britain saying the polls were "seriously flawed" and asked officials to "refrain from further acts of violence". Germany also said that the elections raised "strong doubts", while France urged for restraint. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping congratulated Lukashenko, who is in power for decades.

US joins chorus with European nations, raises concerns over Belarus elections

Belarus&nbsp;is navigating one of the biggest political crises in its post-Soviet history&nbsp;after the opposition rejected official election results handing President Alexander Lukashenko a landslide re-election victory.

A former Soviet collective farm manager, Alexander Lukashenko has ruled&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;since 1994. The 65-year-old has cast himself as a guarantor of stability, saying the state looks after most of its 9.5 million people's needs in the same way as the Soviet Union did.

Washington once called him Europe's last dictator. He has faced regular criticism from the West over human rights abuses, something he denies. By winning his sixth presidential election,&nbsp;he is set to extend his 25-year rule.&nbsp;

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>

Mass protests erupted after polls closed. The opposition says the election was rigged and that talks need to begin on a peaceful transfer of power.&nbsp;Western superpowers are backing this popular opinion.

Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanouskaya said on Tuesday she had fled to Lithuania for the sake of her children, after two nights of clashes following the contested re-election of strongman&nbsp;Lukashenko. The state border committee later confirmed her departure.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarusian-opposition-leader-tikhanouskaya-safe-in-lithuania-after-clashes-319685" hreflang="en">Belarusian opposition leader Tikhanouskaya 'safe' in Lithuania after clashes</a>

The announcement came after she was in meeting with government officials for seven hours. After that she&nbsp;went missing. She had gone to lodge a complaint against the election result.

Tikhanouskaya, a 37-year-old former English teacher, emerged from obscurity to mount the biggest challenge in years to Lukashenko, taking her husband's place in the campaign after he was jailed.&nbsp;

"And I know that many people will understand me, many will judge me and many will hate me. But, you know, God forbid being faced with such a choice the I was faced with," she said.

Her&nbsp;campaign team said on Tuesday that she had been forced to leave the country by the authorities.&nbsp;Her husband, Syarhei, had popularised a protest movement that compared Lukashenko to a cockroach character from a children's fairytale. He was arrested in May.

People stormed the streets, demanding Lukashenko's resignation, police fired tear gas, rubber bullets and stun grenades to keep them under control.&nbsp;

In defence, protesters set up barricades and threw molotov cocktails. 3000 protesters have been arrested, half of them in the capital city of Minsk.

President Lukashenko says they are sheep acting under the orders of foreign actors.&nbsp;

"There were calls from Poland, Great Britain, and the Czech Republic. They controlled our, excuse me, sheep. Protesters do not understand what they are doing. They are already coming under someone's control."

Lukashenko wants no foreign interference, but he is facing the heat.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the election was "not free and fair" and condemned "ongoing violence against protesters and the detention of opposition supporters".

Foreign observers have not judged an election to be free and fair in&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;since 1995, and the run-up to this month's vote saw authorities jail Lukashenko's rivals and open criminal investigations of others who voiced opposition.

Belarus is navigating one of the biggest political crises in its post-Soviet history after the opposition rejected official election results handing President Alexander Lukashenko a landslide re-election victory.

Belarus is navigating one of the biggest political crises in its post-Soviet history after the opposition rejected official election results handing President Alexander Lukashenko a landslide re-election victory. A former Soviet collective farm manager, Alexander Lukashenko has ruled Belarus since 1994. The 65-year-old has cast himself as a guarantor of stability, saying the state looks after most of its 9.5 million people's needs in the same way as the Soviet Union did. Washington once called him Europe's last dictator. He has faced regular criticism from the West over human rights abuses, something he denies. By winning his sixth presidential election, he is set to extend his 25-year rule. Also see: Water cannons, tear gas, stun grenades: Protesters clash with Belarus police after election results Mass protests erupted after polls closed. The opposition says the election was rigged and that talks need to begin on a peaceful transfer of power. Western superpowers are backing this popular opinion. Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanouskaya said on Tuesday she had fled to Lithuania for the sake of her children, after two nights of clashes following the contested re-election of strongman Lukashenko. The state border committee later confirmed her departure. Also read: Belarusian opposition leader Tikhanouskaya 'safe' in Lithuania after clashes The announcement came after she was in meeting with government officials for seven hours. After that she went missing. She had gone to lodge a complaint against the election result. Tikhanouskaya, a 37-year-old former English teacher, emerged from obscurity to mount the biggest challenge in years to Lukashenko, taking her husband's place in the campaign after he was jailed. "And I know that many people will understand me, many will judge me and many will hate me. But, you know, God forbid being faced with such a choice the I was faced with," she said. Her campaign team said on Tuesday that she had been forced to leave the country by the authorities. Her husband, Syarhei, had popularised a protest movement that compared Lukashenko to a cockroach character from a children's fairytale. He was arrested in May. People stormed the streets, demanding Lukashenko's resignation, police fired tear gas, rubber bullets and stun grenades to keep them under control. In defence, protesters set up barricades and threw molotov cocktails. 3000 protesters have been arrested, half of them in the capital city of Minsk. President Lukashenko says they are sheep acting under the orders of foreign actors. "There were calls from Poland, Great Britain, and the Czech Republic. They controlled our, excuse me, sheep. Protesters do not understand what they are doing. They are already coming under someone's control." Lukashenko wants no foreign interference, but he is facing the heat. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the election was "not free and fair" and condemned "ongoing violence against protesters and the detention of opposition supporters". Foreign observers have not judged an election to be free and fair in Belarus since 1995, and the run-up to this month's vote saw authorities jail Lukashenko's rivals and open criminal investigations of others who voiced opposition.

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko facing criticism amid claims of rigged elections

At least one person died as Belarusian police clashed with protesters on Monday after the opposition accused President Alexander Lukashenko of rigging his re-election victory amid a chorus of criticism from Western leaders.

Helmeted police fired tear gas, rubber bullets and stun grenades and used batons to disperse thousands of people in Minsk in a second night of violence. Protesters set up barricades in several areas and threw Molotov cocktails.

One man died while trying to throw an unidentified explosive device at police that blew up in his hands, the government said. Local media reported clashes breaking out in other towns.

In Pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/water-cannons-tear-gas-stun-grenades-protesters-clash-with-belarus-police-after-election-results-319520" hreflang="en">Water cannons, tear gas, stun grenades: Protesters clash with Belarus police after election results</a>

In power for more than a quarter of a century, Lukashenko claimed a landslide win against Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, a former English teacher who emerged from obscurity to lead the biggest challenge to his rule in years.&nbsp;

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the vote was "not free and fair" and condemned "ongoing violence against protesters and the detention of opposition supporters."

Events are being closely watched by Russia, whose oil exports run through Belarus to the West and which has long regarded the country as a buffer zone against NATO. They are also being monitored by the West, which has tried to lure Minsk from Moscow's orbit.&nbsp;

Germany called for the European Union to discuss sanctions on Belarus that were lifted in 2016 to foster better relations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin used a congratulatory telegram to nudge Lukashenko to accept deeper ties between the two nations, which the Belarusian leader has previously rejected as an assault on his country's independence.

Foreign observers have not judged an election to be free and fair in Belarus since 1995, and the run-up to the vote saw authorities jail Lukashenko's rivals and open criminal investigations of others who voiced opposition.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/us-joins-chorus-with-european-nations-raises-concerns-over-belarus-elections-319580" hreflang="en">US joins chorus with European nations, raises concerns over Belarus elections</a>

Tikhanouskaya's campaign rallies drew some of the biggest crowds since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.&nbsp;

Her team were unable to reach her by phone after she left the election commission building on Monday. Earlier she told reporters she considered herself the election winner.

"The authorities are not listening to us. The authorities need to think about peaceful ways to hand over power," said Tikhanouskaya, who entered the race after her blogger husband was jailed. "Of course we do not recognise the results."&nbsp;

'NO REVOLUTION'

The opposition said it was ready to hold talks with the authorities. There was no immediate response to that offer from Lukashenko, a former Soviet collective farm manager who has kept Belarus under tight control since 1994.&nbsp;

He faces discontent over his handling of the economy, the COVID-19 pandemic and human rights abuses. But the president signalled he would not step down.

"We won't allow the country to be torn apart," the 65-year-old leader was quoted by the Belta news agency as saying.

Lukashenko repeated allegations that shadowy forces abroad were trying to manipulate protesters he called "sheep" in order to topple him, something he said he would never allow.

"They are trying to orchestrate mayhem," said Lukashenko. "But I have already warned: there will be no revolution."

The European Union's foreign policy chief and its commissioner for enlargement said the election had been marred by "disproportionate and unacceptable state violence against peaceful protesters".&nbsp;

"We condemn the violence and call for the immediate release of all (those) detained during last night," Josep Borrell and Oliver Varhelyi said in a joint statement.&nbsp;

Neighbouring Poland wants a special EU summit on Belarus.

At least one person died as Belarusian police clashed with protesters on Monday after the opposition accused President Alexander Lukashenko of rigging his re-election victory amid a chorus of criticism from Western leaders.

At least one person died as Belarusian police clashed with protesters on Monday after the opposition accused President Alexander Lukashenko of rigging his re-election victory amid a chorus of criticism from Western leaders. Helmeted police fired tear gas, rubber bullets and stun grenades and used batons to disperse thousands of people in Minsk in a second night of violence. Protesters set up barricades in several areas and threw Molotov cocktails. One man died while trying to throw an unidentified explosive device at police that blew up in his hands, the government said. Local media reported clashes breaking out in other towns. In Pics: Water cannons, tear gas, stun grenades: Protesters clash with Belarus police after election results In power for more than a quarter of a century, Lukashenko claimed a landslide win against Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, a former English teacher who emerged from obscurity to lead the biggest challenge to his rule in years. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the vote was "not free and fair" and condemned "ongoing violence against protesters and the detention of opposition supporters." Events are being closely watched by Russia, whose oil exports run through Belarus to the West and which has long regarded the country as a buffer zone against NATO. They are also being monitored by the West, which has tried to lure Minsk from Moscow's orbit. Germany called for the European Union to discuss sanctions on Belarus that were lifted in 2016 to foster better relations. Russian President Vladimir Putin used a congratulatory telegram to nudge Lukashenko to accept deeper ties between the two nations, which the Belarusian leader has previously rejected as an assault on his country's independence. Foreign observers have not judged an election to be free and fair in Belarus since 1995, and the run-up to the vote saw authorities jail Lukashenko's rivals and open criminal investigations of others who voiced opposition. Also read: US joins chorus with European nations, raises concerns over Belarus elections Tikhanouskaya's campaign rallies drew some of the biggest crowds since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. Her team were unable to reach her by phone after she left the election commission building on Monday. Earlier she told reporters she considered herself the election winner. "The authorities are not listening to us. The authorities need to think about peaceful ways to hand over power," said Tikhanouskaya, who entered the race after her blogger husband was jailed. "Of course we do not recognise the results." 'NO REVOLUTION' The opposition said it was ready to hold talks with the authorities. There was no immediate response to that offer from Lukashenko, a former Soviet collective farm manager who has kept Belarus under tight control since 1994. He faces discontent over his handling of the economy, the COVID-19 pandemic and human rights abuses. But the president signalled he would not step down. "We won't allow the country to be torn apart," the 65-year-old leader was quoted by the Belta news agency as saying. Lukashenko repeated allegations that shadowy forces abroad were trying to manipulate protesters he called "sheep" in order to topple him, something he said he would never allow. "They are trying to orchestrate mayhem," said Lukashenko. "But I have already warned: there will be no revolution." The European Union's foreign policy chief and its commissioner for enlargement said the election had been marred by "disproportionate and unacceptable state violence against peaceful protesters". "We condemn the violence and call for the immediate release of all (those) detained during last night," Josep Borrell and Oliver Varhelyi said in a joint statement. Neighbouring Poland wants a special EU summit on Belarus.

Bloody clashes in Belarus as West condemns crackdown after election

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has called the protesters 'sheep', who are being controlled by foreign influences. Watch report.

Political unrest in Minsk | Landslide win for Europe's last Dictator | Alexander Lukashenko

The international community has expressed concern over the disputed election result in Belarus after Europe's last dictator Alexander Lukashenko won its record sixth term in office. Watch report.

US deeply concerned by Belarus polls: Germany warns of sanctions over vote

Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanouskaya has joined her children in neighbouring Lithuania, its foreign minister said on Tuesday, after two nights of clashes following the contested re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko.&nbsp;

The 37-year-old Tikhanouskaya emerged from obscurity a few weeks ago to mount the biggest challenge in years to Lukashenko's rule, standing for election after her blogger husband was jailed.&nbsp;

"Svetlana #Tikhanovskaya is safe. She is in #Lithuania," Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius tweeted.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/bloody-clashes-in-belarus-as-west-condemns-crackdown-after-election-319604" hreflang="en">Bloody clashes in Belarus as West condemns crackdown after election</a>

There had been concern about Tikhanouskaya's whereabouts after her campaign team said on Monday they had been unable to reach her by phone hours after she was known to have left a meeting with central election commission officials.&nbsp;

Her campaign team said she had been forced to leave the country.

"She was taken out of the country by the authorities. Svetlana had no choice. Five minutes before the visit, we discussed our future plans and she was certainly not intending to leave the country," campaign aide Olga Kovalkova told Reuters.&nbsp;

By Tuesday morning she had joined her children in Lithuania. The state border committee later confirmed her departure.&nbsp;

At least one person died as police clashed with protesters on Monday after the opposition accused Lukashenko of rigging the vote amid widespread criticism from Western leaders.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/belarus-election-challenger-demands-lukashenko-hand-over-power-319443" hreflang="en">Belarus election challenger demands Lukashenko 'hand over power'</a>

Helmeted police fired tear gas, rubber bullets and stun grenades and used batons to disperse thousands of people in Minsk in a second night of violence. Protesters set up barricades in several areas and threw petrol bombs.

Local media reported clashes in other towns.

In power for more than a quarter of a century, Lukashenko has compared the protesters to criminal gangs and dangerous revolutionaries with shadowy foreign backers.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the election was "not free and fair" and condemned "ongoing violence against protesters and the detention of opposition supporters".

Foreign observers have not judged an election to be free and fair in Belarus since 1995, and the run-up to this month's vote saw authorities jail Lukashenko's rivals and open criminal investigations of others who voiced opposition.

Tikhanouskaya's campaign rallies drew some of the biggest crowds since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. A former English teacher, she was initially reluctant to stand, saying she had received an anonymous threat of having her children taken away.

She had moved them abroad during the campaign.&nbsp;

"She is resting with her children," Lithuania's foreign ministry spokeswoman told Reuters by phone.&nbsp;

On Monday, Tikhanouskaya told reporters she considered herself the election winner.

"The authorities need to think about peaceful ways to hand over power," she said. "Of course we do not recognise the results."

Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanouskaya has joined her children in neighbouring Lithuania, its foreign minister said on Tuesday, after two nights of clashes following the contested re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko.

Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanouskaya has joined her children in neighbouring Lithuania, its foreign minister said on Tuesday, after two nights of clashes following the contested re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko. The 37-year-old Tikhanouskaya emerged from obscurity a few weeks ago to mount the biggest challenge in years to Lukashenko's rule, standing for election after her blogger husband was jailed. "Svetlana #Tikhanovskaya is safe. She is in #Lithuania," Lithuanian Foreign Minister Linas Linkevicius tweeted. Also read: Bloody clashes in Belarus as West condemns crackdown after election There had been concern about Tikhanouskaya's whereabouts after her campaign team said on Monday they had been unable to reach her by phone hours after she was known to have left a meeting with central election commission officials. Her campaign team said she had been forced to leave the country. "She was taken out of the country by the authorities. Svetlana had no choice. Five minutes before the visit, we discussed our future plans and she was certainly not intending to leave the country," campaign aide Olga Kovalkova told Reuters. By Tuesday morning she had joined her children in Lithuania. The state border committee later confirmed her departure. At least one person died as police clashed with protesters on Monday after the opposition accused Lukashenko of rigging the vote amid widespread criticism from Western leaders. Also read: Belarus election challenger demands Lukashenko 'hand over power' Helmeted police fired tear gas, rubber bullets and stun grenades and used batons to disperse thousands of people in Minsk in a second night of violence. Protesters set up barricades in several areas and threw petrol bombs. Local media reported clashes in other towns. In power for more than a quarter of a century, Lukashenko has compared the protesters to criminal gangs and dangerous revolutionaries with shadowy foreign backers. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the election was "not free and fair" and condemned "ongoing violence against protesters and the detention of opposition supporters". Foreign observers have not judged an election to be free and fair in Belarus since 1995, and the run-up to this month's vote saw authorities jail Lukashenko's rivals and open criminal investigations of others who voiced opposition. Tikhanouskaya's campaign rallies drew some of the biggest crowds since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. A former English teacher, she was initially reluctant to stand, saying she had received an anonymous threat of having her children taken away. She had moved them abroad during the campaign. "She is resting with her children," Lithuania's foreign ministry spokeswoman told Reuters by phone. On Monday, Tikhanouskaya told reporters she considered herself the election winner. "The authorities need to think about peaceful ways to hand over power," she said. "Of course we do not recognise the results."

Belarusian opposition leader Tikhanouskaya 'safe' in Lithuania after clashes

Belarus police fired water cannons, tear gas and stun grenades in a crackdown on protests that erupted on Sunday as President Alexander Lukashenko was set to claim another election win.

State-approved exit polls showed him winning 79.7% of the vote while his main opponent Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, a former English teacher who emerged from obscurity a few weeks ago to lead rallies against him, received 6.8%.

To this end, thousands of people took to the streets of Minsk and other cities while protesters clapped, shouted "victory", waved flags and honked car horns in solidarity with the opposition. Some built barricades with garbage cans. Police detained and clashed with protesters.

A police prisoner transport van hit a crowd of people in Minsk.

Foreign observers have not judged an election to be free and fair in Belarus since 1995.

A harsh response to new protests could hurt Lukashenko's attempts to mend fences with the West amid fraying ties with traditional ally Russia, which has tried to press Belarus into closer economic and political union.

Tikhanouskaya's rallies have drawn some of the biggest crowds since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, and on Sunday she arrived at a polling station with hundreds of supporters chanting her name.

Human rights groups say more than 1,300 people were detained in the crackdown ahead of the election, including independent election observers and members of Tikhanouskaya's campaign team.

After casting his vote, Lukashenko denied imposing repressive measures as "fake news or far-fetched accusations" and said he did not regard Tikhanouskaya`s camp as a threat.

Long queues of voters formed outside some polling stations in Minsk and also outside the Belarusian embassies in Moscow and Kyiv for people casting their ballot abroad.

Portraying himself as a guarantor of stability but criticised by the West as dictatorial, Lukashenko says the opposition protesters are in cahoots with foreign backers to destabilise the country.

Lukashenko has struggled to raise incomes and living standards in recent years. He also faced anger over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, which he dismissed as a "psychosis" while suggesting drinking vodka and playing ice hockey as remedies.

A former Soviet collective farm manager, the authoritarian Lukashenko has ruled the country since 1994 but has battled a wave of anger over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the economy and his human rights record.

Tikhanouskaya entered the race after her husband, an anti-government blogger who intended to run, was jailed.

Belarus police fired water cannons, tear gas and stun grenades in a crackdown on protests that erupted on Sunday as President Alexander Lukashenko was set to claim another election win.

Belarus police fired water cannons, tear gas and stun grenades in a crackdown on protests that erupted on Sunday as President Alexander Lukashenko was set to claim another election win. State-approved exit polls showed him winning 79.7% of the vote while his main opponent Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, a former English teacher who emerged from obscurity a few weeks ago to lead rallies against him, received 6.8%. To this end, thousands of people took to the streets of Minsk and other cities while protesters clapped, shouted "victory", waved flags and honked car horns in solidarity with the opposition. Some built barricades with garbage cans. Police detained and clashed with protesters. A police prisoner transport van hit a crowd of people in Minsk. Foreign observers have not judged an election to be free and fair in Belarus since 1995. A harsh response to new protests could hurt Lukashenko's attempts to mend fences with the West amid fraying ties with traditional ally Russia, which has tried to press Belarus into closer economic and political union. Tikhanouskaya's rallies have drawn some of the biggest crowds since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, and on Sunday she arrived at a polling station with hundreds of supporters chanting her name. Human rights groups say more than 1,300 people were detained in the crackdown ahead of the election, including independent election observers and members of Tikhanouskaya's campaign team. After casting his vote, Lukashenko denied imposing repressive measures as "fake news or far-fetched accusations" and said he did not regard Tikhanouskaya`s camp as a threat. Long queues of voters formed outside some polling stations in Minsk and also outside the Belarusian embassies in Moscow and Kyiv for people casting their ballot abroad. Portraying himself as a guarantor of stability but criticised by the West as dictatorial, Lukashenko says the opposition protesters are in cahoots with foreign backers to destabilise the country. Lukashenko has struggled to raise incomes and living standards in recent years. He also faced anger over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, which he dismissed as a "psychosis" while suggesting drinking vodka and playing ice hockey as remedies. A former Soviet collective farm manager, the authoritarian Lukashenko has ruled the country since 1994 but has battled a wave of anger over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the economy and his human rights record. Tikhanouskaya entered the race after her husband, an anti-government blogger who intended to run, was jailed.

Police, protesters clash after Belarus presidential vote

Water cannons, tear gas, stun grenades: Protesters clash with Belarus police after election results

Police in Belarus have cracked down on opposition protesters after an official exit poll put President Alexander Lukashenko on course to win a sixth term.

Belarus Elections: Lukashenko wins his 6th term in office | Protests in Belarus | WION

The main challenger in Belarus's presidential election on Monday rejected results showing an overwhelming victory for President Alexander Lukashenko and demanded authorities transfer power to the opposition. 
 
"Yesterday the voters made their choice but the authorities did not hear us, they have broken with the people," Svetlana Tikhanovskaya told a news conference after police dispersed crowds of protesters overnight.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lukashenko-wins-belarus-presidential-vote-with-797-official-exit-poll-319280" hreflang="en">Lukashenko wins Belarus presidential vote with 79.7%: Official exit poll</a> 
 
"The authorities should think about how to peacefully hand over power to us," she said. "I consider myself the winner of this election." 
 
She denounced authorities for the crackdown saying police had used "disproportionate measures" against protesters and called disruptions to the internet "a crime".&nbsp; 
 
"We have seen that the authorities are trying to hold on to their positions by force," she said. 
 
"No matter how much we asked authorities not to turn on their own people, we were not listened to."&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The main challenger in Belarus's presidential election on Monday rejected results showing an overwhelming victory for President Alexander Lukashenko and demanded authorities transfer power to the opposition.

The main challenger in Belarus's presidential election on Monday rejected results showing an overwhelming victory for President Alexander Lukashenko and demanded authorities transfer power to the opposition. "Yesterday the voters made their choice but the authorities did not hear us, they have broken with the people," Svetlana Tikhanovskaya told a news conference after police dispersed crowds of protesters overnight. Also read: Lukashenko wins Belarus presidential vote with 79.7%: Official exit poll "The authorities should think about how to peacefully hand over power to us," she said. "I consider myself the winner of this election." She denounced authorities for the crackdown saying police had used "disproportionate measures" against protesters and called disruptions to the internet "a crime". "We have seen that the authorities are trying to hold on to their positions by force," she said. "No matter how much we asked authorities not to turn on their own people, we were not listened to."

Belarus election challenger demands Lukashenko 'hand over power'

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko won a landslide re-election victory, the central election commission said on Monday, after bloody clashes between riot police and thousands of protesters who said the poll was rigged.

Figures from the election commission said Lukashenko had won 80% of the vote in Sunday's election. Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, a former English teacher who emerged from obscurity to become his main rival, won 9.9% of the vote, the data showed.

Foreign observers have not judged an election to be free and fair in Belarus since 1995, and the run-up to the vote saw authorities jail Lukashenko's rivals and open criminal investigations into others who voiced opposition.

A former Soviet collective farm manager, Lukashenko has ruled the country since 1994, but is facing his biggest challenge in years to keep his grip on power amid disenchantment in some quarters over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the economy and his patchy human rights record.

The streets were quiet in the capital Minsk and other cities after violence on Sunday night when police used force to try to disperse thousands of protesters who gathered after polls closed to denounce what they said were illegitimate elections.

Protesters clapped, shouted "victory", waved flags and honked car horns in solidarity with the opposition. Some built barricades with garbage cans. Police fired water cannons, tear gas and stun grenades to try to force people to go home.

Video footage showed helmeted police forcefully detaining protesters and a police van hit a crowd of people in Minsk, witnesses said.

Spring 96, a rights group, said at least one person had been killed in the van incident. It said dozens had been injured in the clashes and that over 100 people had been detained.

Authorities said nobody had lost their life in the violence, but that 10 police officers had been injured.

Tikhanouskaya, who entered the race after her blogger husband who intended to run was jailed, was expected to speak later on Monday.

On Sunday, she called on her supporters to prevent what she called provocations and for authorities to refrain from violence. Her rallies have drawn some of the biggest crowds since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991.

Lukashenko's attempts to crack down on protests could hurt his wider effort to mend fences with the West amid fraying ties with traditional ally Russia, which has tried to press Belarus into closer economic and political union.

Human rights groups say more than 1,300 people were detained in the crackdown ahead of the election, including independent election observers and members of Tikhanouskaya's campaign team.

After casting his vote on Sunday, Lukashenko denied imposing repressive measures as "fake news or far-fetched accusations".

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko won a landslide re-election victory, the central election commission said on Monday, after bloody clashes between riot police and thousands of protesters who said the poll was rigged.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko won a landslide re-election victory, the central election commission said on Monday, after bloody clashes between riot police and thousands of protesters who said the poll was rigged. Figures from the election commission said Lukashenko had won 80% of the vote in Sunday's election. Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, a former English teacher who emerged from obscurity to become his main rival, won 9.9% of the vote, the data showed. Foreign observers have not judged an election to be free and fair in Belarus since 1995, and the run-up to the vote saw authorities jail Lukashenko's rivals and open criminal investigations into others who voiced opposition. A former Soviet collective farm manager, Lukashenko has ruled the country since 1994, but is facing his biggest challenge in years to keep his grip on power amid disenchantment in some quarters over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the economy and his patchy human rights record. The streets were quiet in the capital Minsk and other cities after violence on Sunday night when police used force to try to disperse thousands of protesters who gathered after polls closed to denounce what they said were illegitimate elections. Protesters clapped, shouted "victory", waved flags and honked car horns in solidarity with the opposition. Some built barricades with garbage cans. Police fired water cannons, tear gas and stun grenades to try to force people to go home. Video footage showed helmeted police forcefully detaining protesters and a police van hit a crowd of people in Minsk, witnesses said. Spring 96, a rights group, said at least one person had been killed in the van incident. It said dozens had been injured in the clashes and that over 100 people had been detained. Authorities said nobody had lost their life in the violence, but that 10 police officers had been injured. Tikhanouskaya, who entered the race after her blogger husband who intended to run was jailed, was expected to speak later on Monday. On Sunday, she called on her supporters to prevent what she called provocations and for authorities to refrain from violence. Her rallies have drawn some of the biggest crowds since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. Lukashenko's attempts to crack down on protests could hurt his wider effort to mend fences with the West amid fraying ties with traditional ally Russia, which has tried to press Belarus into closer economic and political union. Human rights groups say more than 1,300 people were detained in the crackdown ahead of the election, including independent election observers and members of Tikhanouskaya's campaign team. After casting his vote on Sunday, Lukashenko denied imposing repressive measures as "fake news or far-fetched accusations".

Belarusian president Lukashenko re-elected by landslide, say official results

Longtime Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko won Sunday's presidential election with 79.7 percent of the vote, according to the official exit poll, after a tense campaign that saw a woman opposition candidate posing a historic challenge.

Main opposition challenger Svetlana Tikhanovskaya came second with 6.8 percent, according to the poll for state broadcaster MIR.

Tikhanovskaya, a 37-year-old English teacher by training and stay-at-home mother, mounted a surprise opposition campaign against Lukashenko after her husband, a popular blogger, was jailed and barred from running.

Tens of thousands of supporters attended her rallies and many voters wore the opposition's trademark white bracelets at polling stations on Sunday.

Huge queues had formed outside polling stations in Minsk and other cities before voting ended, after Tikhanovskaya urged her supporters to vote late, to give the authorities less opportunity to falsify the results.

Central Election Commission chief Lidia Yermoshina, who had earlier denounced the queues as an "organised provocation", said most polling stations had closed at 8:00 pm (1700 GMT) as planned but that voting would be extended at some to allow waiting voters to cast their ballots.

"I hope that the vote will also end without any problems" at these stations, she said on public television.

The atmosphere in the capital Minsk was tense, with police and special forces on the streets and many residents saying it was impossible to connect to the internet.

Longtime Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko won Sunday's presidential election with 79.7 percent of the vote, according to the official exit poll, after a tense campaign that saw a woman opposition candidate posing a historic challenge.

Longtime Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko won Sunday's presidential election with 79.7 percent of the vote, according to the official exit poll, after a tense campaign that saw a woman opposition candidate posing a historic challenge. Main opposition challenger Svetlana Tikhanovskaya came second with 6.8 percent, according to the poll for state broadcaster MIR. Tikhanovskaya, a 37-year-old English teacher by training and stay-at-home mother, mounted a surprise opposition campaign against Lukashenko after her husband, a popular blogger, was jailed and barred from running. Tens of thousands of supporters attended her rallies and many voters wore the opposition's trademark white bracelets at polling stations on Sunday. Huge queues had formed outside polling stations in Minsk and other cities before voting ended, after Tikhanovskaya urged her supporters to vote late, to give the authorities less opportunity to falsify the results. Central Election Commission chief Lidia Yermoshina, who had earlier denounced the queues as an "organised provocation", said most polling stations had closed at 8:00 pm (1700 GMT) as planned but that voting would be extended at some to allow waiting voters to cast their ballots. "I hope that the vote will also end without any problems" at these stations, she said on public television. The atmosphere in the capital Minsk was tense, with police and special forces on the streets and many residents saying it was impossible to connect to the internet.

Lukashenko wins Belarus presidential vote with 79.7%: Official exit poll

Election officials in Belarus accused the opposition of an "organised provocation" on Sunday as long queues formed outside polling stations during a tense presidential vote.

Leading opposition candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya had called on supporters to vote late supposedly to help prevent election fraud and AFP reporters said long lines of voters had formed outside polling stations in the capital Minsk, just hours before voting was due to end.

Election officials had warned they could restrict access to polling stations and Central Election Commission chief Lidia Yermoshina described the queues as "real sabotage, an organised provocation".

"This is what has led to the very long queues at polling stations," she said&nbsp;in televised comments.

Security was tight in Belarus for the election, with police deployed across the city and special forces at checkpoints.&nbsp;

President Alexander Lukashenko, who is facing the biggest challenge to his authority in years, has alleged his opponents may be planning unrest.

Big queues had also formed at Belarusian embassies abroad, including in Moscow where hundreds were lined up outside the embassy only two hours before voting was due to end at 8:00 pm local time (1700 GMT).

Lukashenko has ruled the ex-Soviet country of 9.5 million people with an iron grip since 1994.

Leading opposition candidates were jailed ahead of Sunday's vote, including Tikhanovskaya's husband, popular blogger Sergei Tikhanovsky.

She announced she would run in his place and has drawn tens of thousands of supporters to campaign rallies.&nbsp;

Election officials in Belarus accused the opposition of an "organised provocation" on Sunday as long queues formed outside polling stations during a tense presidential vote.

Election officials in Belarus accused the opposition of an "organised provocation" on Sunday as long queues formed outside polling stations during a tense presidential vote. Leading opposition candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya had called on supporters to vote late supposedly to help prevent election fraud and AFP reporters said long lines of voters had formed outside polling stations in the capital Minsk, just hours before voting was due to end. Election officials had warned they could restrict access to polling stations and Central Election Commission chief Lidia Yermoshina described the queues as "real sabotage, an organised provocation". "This is what has led to the very long queues at polling stations," she said in televised comments. Security was tight in Belarus for the election, with police deployed across the city and special forces at checkpoints. President Alexander Lukashenko, who is facing the biggest challenge to his authority in years, has alleged his opponents may be planning unrest. Big queues had also formed at Belarusian embassies abroad, including in Moscow where hundreds were lined up outside the embassy only two hours before voting was due to end at 8:00 pm local time (1700 GMT). Lukashenko has ruled the ex-Soviet country of 9.5 million people with an iron grip since 1994. Leading opposition candidates were jailed ahead of Sunday's vote, including Tikhanovskaya's husband, popular blogger Sergei Tikhanovsky. She announced she would run in his place and has drawn tens of thousands of supporters to campaign rallies.

Long queues in Belarus vote, authorities denounce 'provocation'

The surprise opposition candidate mounting the most serious challenge in years to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said Friday that her country was waking up, but warned that the strongman planned to rig the vote.

Political novice Svetlana Tikhanovskaya&nbsp;has emerged as the rising star of the opposition in her ex-Soviet nation, ruled by Lukashenko since 1994 and sometimes described as Europe's last dictatorship.

Speaking to AFP in central Minsk after a gruelling campaign that has seen her&nbsp;attract big crowds of supporters, Tikhanovskaya said it seemed something in her country had changed ahead of Sunday's election.

"People are waking up, rediscovering their self-respect," the 37-year-old said, wearing the white bracelet that has become the symbol of&nbsp;Belarus's opposition.

Tikhanovskaya decided to run after her 41-year-old blogger husband, Sergei Tikhanovsky, ended up in jail and could not submit his own presidential bid in time.

She said she expected Lukashenko to rig the election but warned that he needed to quit power peacefully if he lost.

"We won't be able to prevent falsifications. We've seen over the past couple of days how brazenly this election is being falsified. There is no hope that they will count honestly. We have to be realistic."

Early voting began in the country of 9.5 million people on Tuesday, with official turnout over the past three days already at more than 22 percent.

'We don't want blood'

Tikhanovskaya said the opposition would conduct an alternative count and would know if the election had been rigged, but said she would not urge her supporters to take to the streets.

"At this stage each one has to decide for himself," she said, warning that Lukashenko would only encourage protests by quashing dissent.

"They are doing everything for the peaceful protests to become bloody ones. And I don't want this."

Switching from Russian to English, a language in which she trained as a teacher, Tikhanovskaya said: "People are tired. Twenty-six years is enough."

She said that if an alternative candidate ends up winning the vote, the 65-year-old strongman should "step away peacefully" and let the country "move forward with a new leader".

"It's very simple. We don't want blood," she said.

Tikhanovskaya only made the decision to stand for president in May and was allowed to after the electoral commission dropped two stronger opposition candidates.

Despite a lack of political experience, she has quickly emerged as the country's top opposition figure, with tens of thousands rallying to support her bid.

Tikhanovskaya said she is contesting the election to get her jailed husband out of prison and win much-needed freedom for her country.

Their five-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son have been taken abroad for their own safety.

When she spoke of her husband and children, tears welled up in her eyes.

She said the campaign has been tough on her, adding that the separation with her children -- including her son who is hearing impaired -- was difficult.

"I am afraid, every day I am afraid," she said.

'Embodiment of hope'

Her husband was also "under huge pressure" in prison but she was confident that he would pull through.

"He believes in Belarusians, he believes in me," she said.

She accused Lukashenko of showing blatant disregard for the people during the coronavirus epidemic, which the strongman has dismissed as a hoax.

While people were dying and doctors lacked protective gear, Lukashenko encouraged Belarusians to drink vodka and drive tractors as a way to overcome the coronavirus, she noted.

"That really really affected me," Tikhanovskaya said. "He says he loves his people and his country but he says these things."

Tikhanovskaya challenged Lukashenko to a face-to-face debate but he refused, accusing her of being backed by Russian interests.

She rubbished the claim. "If they had any proof, I am sure they would have long produced it."

Tikhanovskaya said she wanted to help build a new Belarus but that she saw herself not as a politician, but as a symbol.

"I have become the embodiment of people's hope, their longing for change."

The surprise opposition candidate mounting the most serious challenge in years to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said Friday that her country was waking up, but warned that the strongman planned to rig the vote.

The surprise opposition candidate mounting the most serious challenge in years to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said Friday that her country was waking up, but warned that the strongman planned to rig the vote. Political novice Svetlana Tikhanovskaya has emerged as the rising star of the opposition in her ex-Soviet nation, ruled by Lukashenko since 1994 and sometimes described as Europe's last dictatorship. Speaking to AFP in central Minsk after a gruelling campaign that has seen her attract big crowds of supporters, Tikhanovskaya said it seemed something in her country had changed ahead of Sunday's election. "People are waking up, rediscovering their self-respect," the 37-year-old said, wearing the white bracelet that has become the symbol of Belarus's opposition. Tikhanovskaya decided to run after her 41-year-old blogger husband, Sergei Tikhanovsky, ended up in jail and could not submit his own presidential bid in time. She said she expected Lukashenko to rig the election but warned that he needed to quit power peacefully if he lost. "We won't be able to prevent falsifications. We've seen over the past couple of days how brazenly this election is being falsified. There is no hope that they will count honestly. We have to be realistic." Early voting began in the country of 9.5 million people on Tuesday, with official turnout over the past three days already at more than 22 percent. 'We don't want blood' Tikhanovskaya said the opposition would conduct an alternative count and would know if the election had been rigged, but said she would not urge her supporters to take to the streets. "At this stage each one has to decide for himself," she said, warning that Lukashenko would only encourage protests by quashing dissent. "They are doing everything for the peaceful protests to become bloody ones. And I don't want this." Switching from Russian to English, a language in which she trained as a teacher, Tikhanovskaya said: "People are tired. Twenty-six years is enough." She said that if an alternative candidate ends up winning the vote, the 65-year-old strongman should "step away peacefully" and let the country "move forward with a new leader". "It's very simple. We don't want blood," she said. Tikhanovskaya only made the decision to stand for president in May and was allowed to after the electoral commission dropped two stronger opposition candidates. Despite a lack of political experience, she has quickly emerged as the country's top opposition figure, with tens of thousands rallying to support her bid. Tikhanovskaya said she is contesting the election to get her jailed husband out of prison and win much-needed freedom for her country. Their five-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son have been taken abroad for their own safety. When she spoke of her husband and children, tears welled up in her eyes. She said the campaign has been tough on her, adding that the separation with her children -- including her son who is hearing impaired -- was difficult. "I am afraid, every day I am afraid," she said. 'Embodiment of hope' Her husband was also "under huge pressure" in prison but she was confident that he would pull through. "He believes in Belarusians, he believes in me," she said. She accused Lukashenko of showing blatant disregard for the people during the coronavirus epidemic, which the strongman has dismissed as a hoax. While people were dying and doctors lacked protective gear, Lukashenko encouraged Belarusians to drink vodka and drive tractors as a way to overcome the coronavirus, she noted. "That really really affected me," Tikhanovskaya said. "He says he loves his people and his country but he says these things." Tikhanovskaya challenged Lukashenko to a face-to-face debate but he refused, accusing her of being backed by Russian interests. She rubbished the claim. "If they had any proof, I am sure they would have long produced it." Tikhanovskaya said she wanted to help build a new Belarus but that she saw herself not as a politician, but as a symbol. "I have become the embodiment of people's hope, their longing for change."

Belarus opposition leader sees ‘longing for change’, but predicts rigged presidential vote

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday accused Russia of lying about the presence of Russian security contractors in Belarus and said unnamed forces were trying to carry out a revolution but would fail.

The 65-year-old has ruled over the ex-Soviet country wedged between Russia and Europe with an authoritarian grip for 26 years and has cracked down on the country's emboldened opposition in the lead-up to Sunday's election.

Belarus detained the Russian contractors last week and opened a criminal case into them, saying it suspected "the preparation of terrorist acts". It suggested the men may be linked to Lukashenko's political rivals.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/belarus-suspects-russian-mercenaries-preparing-acts-of-terrorism-318059/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Russia, traditionally a close ally, has said the detained men were merely transiting via Belarus en route to a third country and had no plans to try to influence Belarusian domestic politics.

During a televised address to the nation, Lukashenko slammed what he said were attempts by his opponents to organise "a massacre" on the streets of the capital Minsk, claiming his critics were being backed by "billion-dollar resources" to create unrest.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-says-russians-plotted-attacks-kremlin-denies-317199">Belarus says Russians plotted attacks; Kremlin denies</a>

"Will Belarus survive? Will it survive this hybrid war?" he said, sweating profusely and repeatedly mopping his brow.

"We will not give the country to you. Independence is expensive, but it is worth it," he said during his speech which lasted more than an hour and a half.

There was no immediate reaction from Moscow, which has in the past dismissed Lukashenko's criticism of it as emotional.

Lukashenko used his speech to cast himself as a guarantor of stability in a chaotic world and pledged to protect his country from rivals he portrayed as childish wreckers being controlled by "puppet masters" abroad.

The former collective farm director turned Europe's longest-serving ruler is seeking a sixth term in the upcoming ballot after barring his main rivals from contesting the vote and jailing some of them.

He has accused European countries and Russia of meddling in the elections and last week the Belarusian security service, the KGB, arrested 33 Russian "militants" that the authorities said were plotting mass riots with the opposition.

&nbsp;

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday accused Russia of lying about the presence of Russian security contractors in Belarus and said unnamed forces were trying to carry out a revolution but would fail.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday accused Russia of lying about the presence of Russian security contractors in Belarus and said unnamed forces were trying to carry out a revolution but would fail. The 65-year-old has ruled over the ex-Soviet country wedged between Russia and Europe with an authoritarian grip for 26 years and has cracked down on the country's emboldened opposition in the lead-up to Sunday's election. Belarus detained the Russian contractors last week and opened a criminal case into them, saying it suspected "the preparation of terrorist acts". It suggested the men may be linked to Lukashenko's political rivals. Russia, traditionally a close ally, has said the detained men were merely transiting via Belarus en route to a third country and had no plans to try to influence Belarusian domestic politics. During a televised address to the nation, Lukashenko slammed what he said were attempts by his opponents to organise "a massacre" on the streets of the capital Minsk, claiming his critics were being backed by "billion-dollar resources" to create unrest. Also read: Belarus says Russians plotted attacks; Kremlin denies "Will Belarus survive? Will it survive this hybrid war?" he said, sweating profusely and repeatedly mopping his brow. "We will not give the country to you. Independence is expensive, but it is worth it," he said during his speech which lasted more than an hour and a half. There was no immediate reaction from Moscow, which has in the past dismissed Lukashenko's criticism of it as emotional. Lukashenko used his speech to cast himself as a guarantor of stability in a chaotic world and pledged to protect his country from rivals he portrayed as childish wreckers being controlled by "puppet masters" abroad. The former collective farm director turned Europe's longest-serving ruler is seeking a sixth term in the upcoming ballot after barring his main rivals from contesting the vote and jailing some of them. He has accused European countries and Russia of meddling in the elections and last week the Belarusian security service, the KGB, arrested 33 Russian "militants" that the authorities said were plotting mass riots with the opposition.

Belarus leader accuses Russia of 'lying', warns of 'revolution' plot

Belarusian authorities have said they suspect the men entered their country to plot “acts of terrorism” and destabilise it before an Aug. 9 presidential election.

Belarus suspects Russian mercenaries preparing acts of terrorism

A dispute between Moscow and Minsk over the detention of more than 30 men who Belarus accused of being Russian mercenaries deepened on Saturday, as the two sides contradicted each other about the group’s plans.

The arrests this week, shortly before an August 9 presidential election in Belarus, could further strain relations between Minsk and its traditional ally Russia, which soured after the neighbours failed to agree on an oil supply contract for this year.

Russia said on Thursday that the men, who it described as employees of a private security firm, had stayed in Belarus after missing their connecting flight to Istanbul.

President Alexander Lukashenko cast doubt on this version on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-says-russians-plotted-attacks-kremlin-denies-317199">Also read:&nbsp;Belarus says Russians plotted attacks; Kremlin denies</a>

“There was no Istanbul... It’s clear that the group has had another goals. It is the task of the investigation to find out about those goals”, he said, according to state news agency, after hearing reports from the heads of state security and investigation committee.

He said there had been no agreement with Russia for the men to be in the country, while adding that Belarus is open to cooperate with Russia on the issue.

Belarusian authorities said earlier this week that the men were arrested after Minsk received information that more than 200 fighters had entered the country to destablise it.

On Friday, Alexander Agafonov, the head of the Belarusian investigative group that is handling the case, said that the men - some of whom were wearing army fatigues - had no plans to fly further to Istanbul and said they had given “contradictory accounts” about the purpose of their stay in Belarus.

He was quoted as saying that 11 of the arrested men had told authorities they planned to fly on to Venezuela, 15 - to Turkey, two - to Cuba and one to Syria. Another said he did not know his destination, while three refused to make a statement.

Links to opposition 
Authorities in Minsk said on Thursday they believe the husband of opposition presidential candidate Svetlana Tikhanouskaya may have ties to the group, launching a criminal case against him on suspicion of inciting riots.

Dmitry Mezentsev, Russia’s ambassador to Belarus, rejected any connection between the detained men and domestic affairs in Belarus.

Sergei Naryshkin, head of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, was quoted as saying by RIA news agency on Saturday he hoped the incident would be resolved in the interest of “brotherly” relations between the countries.

A dispute between Moscow and Minsk over the detention of more than 30 men who Belarus accused of being Russian mercenaries deepened on Saturday, as the two sides contradicted each other about the group’s plans.

A dispute between Moscow and Minsk over the detention of more than 30 men who Belarus accused of being Russian mercenaries deepened on Saturday, as the two sides contradicted each other about the group’s plans. The arrests this week, shortly before an August 9 presidential election in Belarus, could further strain relations between Minsk and its traditional ally Russia, which soured after the neighbours failed to agree on an oil supply contract for this year. Russia said on Thursday that the men, who it described as employees of a private security firm, had stayed in Belarus after missing their connecting flight to Istanbul. President Alexander Lukashenko cast doubt on this version on Saturday. Also read: Belarus says Russians plotted attacks; Kremlin denies “There was no Istanbul... It’s clear that the group has had another goals. It is the task of the investigation to find out about those goals”, he said, according to state news agency, after hearing reports from the heads of state security and investigation committee. He said there had been no agreement with Russia for the men to be in the country, while adding that Belarus is open to cooperate with Russia on the issue. Belarusian authorities said earlier this week that the men were arrested after Minsk received information that more than 200 fighters had entered the country to destablise it. On Friday, Alexander Agafonov, the head of the Belarusian investigative group that is handling the case, said that the men - some of whom were wearing army fatigues - had no plans to fly further to Istanbul and said they had given “contradictory accounts” about the purpose of their stay in Belarus. He was quoted as saying that 11 of the arrested men had told authorities they planned to fly on to Venezuela, 15 - to Turkey, two - to Cuba and one to Syria. Another said he did not know his destination, while three refused to make a statement. Links to opposition Authorities in Minsk said on Thursday they believe the husband of opposition presidential candidate Svetlana Tikhanouskaya may have ties to the group, launching a criminal case against him on suspicion of inciting riots. Dmitry Mezentsev, Russia’s ambassador to Belarus, rejected any connection between the detained men and domestic affairs in Belarus. Sergei Naryshkin, head of Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, was quoted as saying by RIA news agency on Saturday he hoped the incident would be resolved in the interest of “brotherly” relations between the countries.

Russia and Belarus at odds over arrest of suspected mercenaries

Belarus on Thursday accused more than 30 detained Russians of plotting terror attacks amid a presidential election campaign. Kremlin, however, vehemently refuted the allegations.

The grave accusations mark an unprecedented spike in tensions between Russia and Belarus.

The Belarusian State Security Committee said it detained 32 people from private Russian military firm Wagner early Wednesday at a sanitarium outside the capital of Minsk. Another person was detained in the country's south.

Security Council Secretary said Thursday that the Russians are facing a criminal probe on charges of plotting terror attacks in Belarus, adding that authorities were searching for another 200 Russian "militants" believed to be in the ex-Soviet nation.

The Kremlin responded by urging Belarus to explain its action and to fully respect the detainees' rights.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-probes-russian-mercenaries-for-terror-plot-316969">Also read |&nbsp;Belarus probes Russian mercenaries for 'terror' plot</a>

"There is no information about any wrongdoing of the Russians that may have caused the detention.," 
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Russian Ambassador Dmitry Mezentsev also dismissed the accusations as unfounded. He said the Russians were en route to an unspecified country and checked into the sanitarium near Minsk after they missed a connecting flight at the capital's airport.

Mezentsev demanded immediate consular access to the detainees and urged Belarusian authorities to show their evidence against the Russians.

President Alexander Lukashenko is campaigning to remain in office amid an upsurge in opposition protests fuelled by a painful economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic.

Some observers see the detention of the Russians as an attempt by the president to mobilise public support in the August 9 election. Independent observers and opposition supporters have dismissed the alleged terror plot as a campaign stunt by Lukashenko.

Belarus and Russia have a union deal envisaging close political, economic and military ties, but Moscow has recently cut some of the subsidies, arguing that Belarus must accept closer integration to receive energy resources at a discount.

To this end, the Belarusian leader has bristled at Russian demands and accused the Kremlin of harboring plans to deprive Belarus of its post-Soviet independence.

Lukashenko is seeking a sixth term in next month's election.

Belarus on Thursday accused more than 30 detained Russians of plotting terror attacks amid a presidential election campaign. Kremlin, however, vehemently refuted the allegations.

Belarus on Thursday accused more than 30 detained Russians of plotting terror attacks amid a presidential election campaign. Kremlin, however, vehemently refuted the allegations. The grave accusations mark an unprecedented spike in tensions between Russia and Belarus. The Belarusian State Security Committee said it detained 32 people from private Russian military firm Wagner early Wednesday at a sanitarium outside the capital of Minsk. Another person was detained in the country's south. Security Council Secretary said Thursday that the Russians are facing a criminal probe on charges of plotting terror attacks in Belarus, adding that authorities were searching for another 200 Russian "militants" believed to be in the ex-Soviet nation. The Kremlin responded by urging Belarus to explain its action and to fully respect the detainees' rights. Also read | Belarus probes Russian mercenaries for 'terror' plot "There is no information about any wrongdoing of the Russians that may have caused the detention.," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Russian Ambassador Dmitry Mezentsev also dismissed the accusations as unfounded. He said the Russians were en route to an unspecified country and checked into the sanitarium near Minsk after they missed a connecting flight at the capital's airport. Mezentsev demanded immediate consular access to the detainees and urged Belarusian authorities to show their evidence against the Russians. President Alexander Lukashenko is campaigning to remain in office amid an upsurge in opposition protests fuelled by a painful economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic. Some observers see the detention of the Russians as an attempt by the president to mobilise public support in the August 9 election. Independent observers and opposition supporters have dismissed the alleged terror plot as a campaign stunt by Lukashenko. Belarus and Russia have a union deal envisaging close political, economic and military ties, but Moscow has recently cut some of the subsidies, arguing that Belarus must accept closer integration to receive energy resources at a discount. To this end, the Belarusian leader has bristled at Russian demands and accused the Kremlin of harboring plans to deprive Belarus of its post-Soviet independence. Lukashenko is seeking a sixth term in next month's election.

Belarus says Russians plotted attacks; Kremlin denies

Belarus said Thursday it had opened a criminal probe into planned acts of terror by Russian mercenaries held ahead of presidential polls, adding that it was tracking down dozens more.

The ex-Soviet country's security services on Wednesday arrested a group of 32 Russian fighters as well as one other man in a different location.

Belarus security council chief Andrei Ravkov said a criminal probe had been launched and that the men face charges of preparing "terrorist acts".

"Thirty-three have been detained, there are up to 200 or thereabouts on the territory (of Belarus)," Ravkov said.

He said "a search is going on" to find the others, complaining that it was "like looking for needles in a haystack."

Belarus's KGB security service said the detained men were members of the Wagner group, a shadowy private military firm reportedly controlled by an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin which promotes Moscow's interests in Ukraine, Syria and Libya.&nbsp;

The arrests came ahead of presidential polls on August 9 in which strongman Alexander Lukashenko is seeking a sixth term.&nbsp;

Lukashenko has detained would-be opposition candidates and their supporters.

Protests have erupted across the ex-Soviet country of 9.5 million people, with a 37-year-old woman political novice, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, quickly emerging as Lukashenko's main rival.

Lukashenko has accused some of his critics of being controlled by "puppeteers" in Moscow.

Lukashenko rivals warned

Ravkov spoke after meeting the candidates standing against Lukashenko, including Tikhanovskaya, and warning them that security measures would be stepped up at rallies.

State news agency Belta said the authorities had received information about the arrival of 200 fighters in Belarus "to destabilise the situation during the election campaign".

Lukashenko at an emergency meeting of his security council on Wednesday demanded an explanation from Moscow.

"If they are guilty, it's necessary to emerge out of this situation with dignity," Lukashenko said in televised remarks.

Russian Ambassador to Belarus Dmitry Mezentsev said Thursday that he had been invited to the Belarusian foreign ministry that morning to discuss the case, Russian news agencies reported.

Russia is Minsk's closest political and economic ally but relations have been strained.

The Belta news agency said the detained Russians sported "military-style clothing" and carried heavy cases.

It also reported that the alleged militants gave themselves away because unlike ordinary Russian tourists, they did not drink.

"They did not consume alcohol or visit entertainment venues. They kept to themselves in order not to attract attention," Belta said, adding that the men stayed at one of the country's spas.

National television showed several Russian passports that allegedly belong to the detained men, as well as stacks of dollar bills, packets of condoms and pieces of paper with Arabic script.

The men appeared to also have Sudanese pounds in their possession.

Russian author Zakhar Prilepin, who fought alongside Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, said he knew some of the detained men.

Writing on Facebook, Prilepin suggested that the fighters probably used Belarus as a transit point and were en route to "some other destination," which he said Belarus "surely knows very well".

Unlike Russia, Belarus has not enforced a lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic and operates flights as usual.

&nbsp;

Belarus said Thursday it had opened a criminal probe into planned acts of terror by Russian mercenaries held ahead of presidential polls, adding that it was tracking down dozens more.

Belarus said Thursday it had opened a criminal probe into planned acts of terror by Russian mercenaries held ahead of presidential polls, adding that it was tracking down dozens more. The ex-Soviet country's security services on Wednesday arrested a group of 32 Russian fighters as well as one other man in a different location. Belarus security council chief Andrei Ravkov said a criminal probe had been launched and that the men face charges of preparing "terrorist acts". "Thirty-three have been detained, there are up to 200 or thereabouts on the territory (of Belarus)," Ravkov said. He said "a search is going on" to find the others, complaining that it was "like looking for needles in a haystack." Belarus's KGB security service said the detained men were members of the Wagner group, a shadowy private military firm reportedly controlled by an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin which promotes Moscow's interests in Ukraine, Syria and Libya. The arrests came ahead of presidential polls on August 9 in which strongman Alexander Lukashenko is seeking a sixth term. Lukashenko has detained would-be opposition candidates and their supporters. Protests have erupted across the ex-Soviet country of 9.5 million people, with a 37-year-old woman political novice, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, quickly emerging as Lukashenko's main rival. Lukashenko has accused some of his critics of being controlled by "puppeteers" in Moscow. Lukashenko rivals warned Ravkov spoke after meeting the candidates standing against Lukashenko, including Tikhanovskaya, and warning them that security measures would be stepped up at rallies. State news agency Belta said the authorities had received information about the arrival of 200 fighters in Belarus "to destabilise the situation during the election campaign". Lukashenko at an emergency meeting of his security council on Wednesday demanded an explanation from Moscow. "If they are guilty, it's necessary to emerge out of this situation with dignity," Lukashenko said in televised remarks. Russian Ambassador to Belarus Dmitry Mezentsev said Thursday that he had been invited to the Belarusian foreign ministry that morning to discuss the case, Russian news agencies reported. Russia is Minsk's closest political and economic ally but relations have been strained. The Belta news agency said the detained Russians sported "military-style clothing" and carried heavy cases. It also reported that the alleged militants gave themselves away because unlike ordinary Russian tourists, they did not drink. "They did not consume alcohol or visit entertainment venues. They kept to themselves in order not to attract attention," Belta said, adding that the men stayed at one of the country's spas. National television showed several Russian passports that allegedly belong to the detained men, as well as stacks of dollar bills, packets of condoms and pieces of paper with Arabic script. The men appeared to also have Sudanese pounds in their possession. Russian author Zakhar Prilepin, who fought alongside Moscow-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, said he knew some of the detained men. Writing on Facebook, Prilepin suggested that the fighters probably used Belarus as a transit point and were en route to "some other destination," which he said Belarus "surely knows very well". Unlike Russia, Belarus has not enforced a lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic and operates flights as usual.

Belarus probes Russian mercenaries for 'terror' plot

The President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, who once famously termed COVID-19 as 'psychosis', has said he contracted coronavirus but recovered without suffering any symptoms.

Lukashenko, 65, has resisted calls for strict lockdown measures to contain the pandemic, dismissing fears about COVID-19 as a “psychosis” and suggesting remedies such as drinking vodka, taking saunas and playing ice hockey.

Public frustration over his handling of the pandemic has fuelled the biggest protests in years against his rule ahead of a presidential election on August&nbsp;9. He has jailed two of his main electoral rivals in a widening crackdown on dissent.

"I apologise for my voice, lately I have to talk a lot. But the most surprising thing is that today you are seeing a person who managed to power through coronavirus standing on his feet," he said on Tuesday during a visit to a military base, according to state-run news agency Belta.

"Like I said, 97% of our people go through this illness without symptoms and thank God I've managed to get into this group of asymptomatic people," added Lukashenko.

The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in fact estimates that about 40% of people infected with Covid-19 don't experience any symptoms.

Lukashenko, who has ruled since 1994, has not limited his own public appearances during the pandemic and went ahead with an annual military parade in May.

Belarus, with a population of 9.5 million, has registered 67,366 coronavirus infections with 543 deaths.

Lukashenko did not say when or how he might have contracted the virus. He met Russian President Vladimir Putin at a military parade in Moscow last month. Putin was fine, TASS news agency quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying.

The President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, who once famously termed COVID-19 as 'psychosis', has said he contracted coronavirus but recovered without suffering any symptoms.

The President of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, who once famously termed COVID-19 as 'psychosis', has said he contracted coronavirus but recovered without suffering any symptoms. Lukashenko, 65, has resisted calls for strict lockdown measures to contain the pandemic, dismissing fears about COVID-19 as a “psychosis” and suggesting remedies such as drinking vodka, taking saunas and playing ice hockey. Public frustration over his handling of the pandemic has fuelled the biggest protests in years against his rule ahead of a presidential election on August 9. He has jailed two of his main electoral rivals in a widening crackdown on dissent. "I apologise for my voice, lately I have to talk a lot. But the most surprising thing is that today you are seeing a person who managed to power through coronavirus standing on his feet," he said on Tuesday during a visit to a military base, according to state-run news agency Belta. "Like I said, 97% of our people go through this illness without symptoms and thank God I've managed to get into this group of asymptomatic people," added Lukashenko. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in fact estimates that about 40% of people infected with Covid-19 don't experience any symptoms. Lukashenko, who has ruled since 1994, has not limited his own public appearances during the pandemic and went ahead with an annual military parade in May. Belarus, with a population of 9.5 million, has registered 67,366 coronavirus infections with 543 deaths. Lukashenko did not say when or how he might have contracted the virus. He met Russian President Vladimir Putin at a military parade in Moscow last month. Putin was fine, TASS news agency quoted Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying.

Belarus president, who dismissed COVID-19 as 'psychosis', says he caught it and recovered

Belarus has been ruled by an autocrat for the last 25 years. The transparency of polls has been threatened now and then. This report highlights the polling situation in Belarus.

Belarus Presidential polls: Govt criticized pandemic situation

A presidential contender who says he fled&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;because he feared for his freedom and custody of his children has told Reuters the country's opposition is pinning its hopes on a candidate he characterised as a latter-day Joan of Arc.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-demonstrators-terrorists-and-promises-retribution-against-them-316198" hreflang="en">Trump calls demonstrators 'terrorists' and promises 'retribution' against them</a>

Valery Tsepkalo, who was this month barred from running in an August&nbsp;9 election against veteran President Alexander Lukashenko, fled to Russia with his two young sons, fearing they could be taken away, his campaign said on Friday.

Authorities disqualified Tsepkalo, 55, from the race after saying they suspected some of the signatures he had collected in his support had been forged, an allegation he denies.

His campaign said officials from the General Prosecutor's Office has visited his sons' school to try to strip him and his wife of their parental rights. The General Prosecutor's Office has denied trying to take his children away.

Tsepkalo, who said he suspected he would meet the same fate as two other opposition figures who have been jailed, said he had no choice but to flee.

"If I would be imprisoned, then I cannot speak openly about what is happening in&nbsp;Belarus," the former diplomat told Reuters at a cafe in central Moscow. "Lukashenko's idea was to split us all and to destroy us one by one and he really did that."

Lukashenko has denied that any opposition figures have been jailed for political reasons, saying law-enforcement policies were aimed at preventing chaos in the country.

Tsepkalo, a successful entrepreneur, said he hoped the opposition had thwarted Lukashenko by uniting behind Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, the wife of an anti-government blogger who has taken her husband's place in the election.

Tikhanouskaya has joined forces with Tsepkalo's wife Veronika and a female campaign team member from another camp to try to unseat Lukashenko, who has dismissed women as being too fragile to run&nbsp;Belarus.

"Lukashenko couldn't expect that we would be able to organise behind one person who appears to be for&nbsp;Belarus&nbsp;society a symbol, like the symbol of the French resistance movement Joan of Arc," said Tsepkalo. He was referring to the 15th-century teenage girl who led the French to victory against the English army, which was besieging the city of Orleans.

Lukashenko, a 65-year-old former collective farm manager, has ruled for over a quarter of a century. He says he has delivered economic and political stability, with the state continuing to provide for many of people's needs.

He has accused opponents of plotting to overthrow him by force and accused Russian and Polish forces of trying to meddle in the election, something Moscow and Warsaw deny.

Tsepkalo described how he had taken a 700-km minibus ride to Moscow from Minsk, the&nbsp;Belarusian capital, with his seven-year-old twins, with only a small suitcase and plastic bags filled with their belongings.

Lukashenko's refusal to take measures to mitigate the COVID-19 crisis had galvanised opposition against him, he said.

The president has told people to drink vodka and take saunas to keep the disease at bay.

Tsepkalo added that the public was also fed up with economic stagnation.

A former ambassador to the United States, Tsepkalo said he hoped to travel to Ukraine and Poland to try to shape public opinion about his country's political problems.

Asked if he feared for his wife back home, Tsepkalo said he sensed Lukashenko's government had yet to determine how to handle female opposition figures.

"I hope that I will be able to go back as soon as possible because I love my country," Tsepkalo said. "I would like to see my country be a good, democratic and prosperous state."

A presidential contender who says he fled Belarus because he feared for his freedom and custody of his children has told Reuters the country's opposition is pinning its hopes on a candidate he characterised as a latter-day Joan of Arc.

A presidential contender who says he fled Belarus because he feared for his freedom and custody of his children has told Reuters the country's opposition is pinning its hopes on a candidate he characterised as a latter-day Joan of Arc. Also read: Trump calls demonstrators 'terrorists' and promises 'retribution' against them Valery Tsepkalo, who was this month barred from running in an August 9 election against veteran President Alexander Lukashenko, fled to Russia with his two young sons, fearing they could be taken away, his campaign said on Friday. Authorities disqualified Tsepkalo, 55, from the race after saying they suspected some of the signatures he had collected in his support had been forged, an allegation he denies. His campaign said officials from the General Prosecutor's Office has visited his sons' school to try to strip him and his wife of their parental rights. The General Prosecutor's Office has denied trying to take his children away. Tsepkalo, who said he suspected he would meet the same fate as two other opposition figures who have been jailed, said he had no choice but to flee. "If I would be imprisoned, then I cannot speak openly about what is happening in Belarus," the former diplomat told Reuters at a cafe in central Moscow. "Lukashenko's idea was to split us all and to destroy us one by one and he really did that." Lukashenko has denied that any opposition figures have been jailed for political reasons, saying law-enforcement policies were aimed at preventing chaos in the country. Tsepkalo, a successful entrepreneur, said he hoped the opposition had thwarted Lukashenko by uniting behind Svetlana Tikhanouskaya, the wife of an anti-government blogger who has taken her husband's place in the election. Tikhanouskaya has joined forces with Tsepkalo's wife Veronika and a female campaign team member from another camp to try to unseat Lukashenko, who has dismissed women as being too fragile to run Belarus. "Lukashenko couldn't expect that we would be able to organise behind one person who appears to be for Belarus society a symbol, like the symbol of the French resistance movement Joan of Arc," said Tsepkalo. He was referring to the 15th-century teenage girl who led the French to victory against the English army, which was besieging the city of Orleans. Lukashenko, a 65-year-old former collective farm manager, has ruled for over a quarter of a century. He says he has delivered economic and political stability, with the state continuing to provide for many of people's needs. He has accused opponents of plotting to overthrow him by force and accused Russian and Polish forces of trying to meddle in the election, something Moscow and Warsaw deny. Tsepkalo described how he had taken a 700-km minibus ride to Moscow from Minsk, the Belarusian capital, with his seven-year-old twins, with only a small suitcase and plastic bags filled with their belongings. Lukashenko's refusal to take measures to mitigate the COVID-19 crisis had galvanised opposition against him, he said. The president has told people to drink vodka and take saunas to keep the disease at bay. Tsepkalo added that the public was also fed up with economic stagnation. A former ambassador to the United States, Tsepkalo said he hoped to travel to Ukraine and Poland to try to shape public opinion about his country's political problems. Asked if he feared for his wife back home, Tsepkalo said he sensed Lukashenko's government had yet to determine how to handle female opposition figures. "I hope that I will be able to go back as soon as possible because I love my country," Tsepkalo said. "I would like to see my country be a good, democratic and prosperous state."

Self-exiled Belarus presidential contender pins hopes on new 'Joan of Arc'

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has accused Russian and Polish forces of meddling in his country’s presidential election campaign and trying to discredit him.

Lukashenko, who has ruled Belarus for 26 years and allowed little dissent, said he would discuss the alleged meddling with Russian President Vladimir Putin. But did not say when.

Lukashenko faces the strongest challenge in years to his hold on power in the August 9 election as frustration mounts over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic and grievances grow over the economy and human rights.

In comments made while appointing new ambassadors, Lukashenko said external forces stood behind his opponents and were disseminating information discrediting him and his family members.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has, however, denied Lukashenko’s allegations.

“Russia has never, is not and does not intend to interfere in election processes, particularly in the ones of our Belarusian ally,” he told reporters.

Relations between Belarus and traditional ally Russia have been strained in recent months as Moscow reduced subsidies that have propped up Lukashenko.

Belarus sovereign bonds fell as much as 2.5 cents after Lukashenko’s comments.

(with inputs from Reuters)

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has accused Russian and Polish forces of meddling in his country’s presidential election campaign and trying to discredit him.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has accused Russian and Polish forces of meddling in his country’s presidential election campaign and trying to discredit him. Lukashenko, who has ruled Belarus for 26 years and allowed little dissent, said he would discuss the alleged meddling with Russian President Vladimir Putin. But did not say when. Lukashenko faces the strongest challenge in years to his hold on power in the August 9 election as frustration mounts over his handling of the coronavirus pandemic and grievances grow over the economy and human rights. In comments made while appointing new ambassadors, Lukashenko said external forces stood behind his opponents and were disseminating information discrediting him and his family members. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has, however, denied Lukashenko’s allegations. “Russia has never, is not and does not intend to interfere in election processes, particularly in the ones of our Belarusian ally,” he told reporters. Relations between Belarus and traditional ally Russia have been strained in recent months as Moscow reduced subsidies that have propped up Lukashenko. Belarus sovereign bonds fell as much as 2.5 cents after Lukashenko’s comments. (with inputs from Reuters)

Belarus accuses Russia of election meddling, seeks talks with Putin

The President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko has dismissed his government on Wednesday, according to the Belta news agency.

The presidential election is set to take place on August 9, 2020, and Lukashenko is anticipated to return to power, who has ruled the country since 1994.

If he wins, it would mark his sixth term as president.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/world/russia-marks-victory-day-with-coronavirus-reduced-ceremony-belarus-with-full-fervour-297648" hreflang="en">Russia marks Victory Day with coronavirus-reduced ceremony, Belarus with full fervour</a>

While addressing officials from his office, Lukashenko on Wednesday said that cabinet is more likely to remain the same.

"A sharp scrapping, replacing all members of the government would be wrong from the point of view of the current moment," Lukashenko said.

"A new generation of leaders has grown up who have shown themselves well and worked well in the government. Why change them? They can work," he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/sports/fans-and-dummies-how-belarus-is-conducting-live-football-matches-amid-covid-19-pandemic-293171" hreflang="en">Fans and dummies: How Belarus is conducting live football matches amid COVID-19 pandemic</a>

The Prime Minister Sergei Rumas was recently fired after being appointed in 2018. No details about the new government formation are available yet.

Lukashenko is a former Soviet head, has had little to no opposition in the country, but is now facing dissent.

Recently, opposition leader Mikola Statkevich was sentenced to 15 days in police detention. Dozens of activists were also arrested after rallies across the country.

Public outcry against the announced presidential elections has stormed the country.

(With inputs from AFP &amp; Reuters)

The President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko has dismissed his government on Wednesday, according to the Belta news agency. The presidential election is set to take place on August 9, 2020, and Lukashenko is anticipated to return to power, who has ruled the country since 1994.

The President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko has dismissed his government on Wednesday, according to the Belta news agency. The presidential election is set to take place on August 9, 2020, and Lukashenko is anticipated to return to power, who has ruled the country since 1994. If he wins, it would mark his sixth term as president. Also read: Russia marks Victory Day with coronavirus-reduced ceremony, Belarus with full fervour While addressing officials from his office, Lukashenko on Wednesday said that cabinet is more likely to remain the same. "A sharp scrapping, replacing all members of the government would be wrong from the point of view of the current moment," Lukashenko said. "A new generation of leaders has grown up who have shown themselves well and worked well in the government. Why change them? They can work," he added. Also read: Fans and dummies: How Belarus is conducting live football matches amid COVID-19 pandemic The Prime Minister Sergei Rumas was recently fired after being appointed in 2018. No details about the new government formation are available yet. Lukashenko is a former Soviet head, has had little to no opposition in the country, but is now facing dissent. Recently, opposition leader Mikola Statkevich was sentenced to 15 days in police detention. Dozens of activists were also arrested after rallies across the country. Public outcry against the announced presidential elections has stormed the country. (With inputs from AFP & Reuters)

Belarus president dismisses government: Report

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