Russia mercenary group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who turned his force against the military leadership in Moscow, will quit Russia and move to Belarus under an agreement brokered by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, the Kremlin said on Saturday.&nbsp; 
 
All criminal charges against Prigozhin will also be dropped under the deal that ends the&nbsp;armed insurrection&nbsp;that appeared as the gravest threat to the authority of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"Avoiding bloodshed, internal confrontation, and clashes with unpredictable results was the highest goal," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Peskov further added that under the deal, Wagner fighters will also not be prosecuted. "We have always respected their heroic deeds at the front," he said.

"An agreement has been reached that Wagner would return to its bases," Peskov said, adding that those fighters who had not participated in the rebellion would be allowed to formally join the Russian army.

<h2>Wagner chief Prigozhin orders his fighters to retreat</h2>

Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary group, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance towards Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed. Prigozhin revealed on Saturday that his forces had made significant progress, covering a distance of 200 km (124 miles) within the past 24 hours, but he has now issued orders for them to promptly return to their respective bases.

This comes as Belarus claimed that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years.

Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin.&nbsp;

Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.”

The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. It said Prigozhin had “accepted [Lukashenko’s] request to “stop the movement of armed men from the Wagner company on Russian territory and [take] further steps to de-escalate the situation.”

“At the moment, there is an absolutely advantageous and acceptable way to defuse the situation on the table, with security guarantees for Wagner’s fighters,” Lukashenko’s press service said, as per media reports.&nbsp;

<h2>Russian President Vladimir Putin thanks Lukashenko</h2>

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group&nbsp;Wagner&nbsp;Yegevy Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces.&nbsp;

"The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague."

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Russia mercenary group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who turned his force against the military leadership in Moscow, will quit Russia and move to Belarus under an agreement brokered by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, the Kremlin said on Saturday.

Russia mercenary group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, who turned his force against the military leadership in Moscow, will quit Russia and move to Belarus under an agreement brokered by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, the Kremlin said on Saturday. All criminal charges against Prigozhin will also be dropped under the deal that ends the armed insurrection that appeared as the gravest threat to the authority of Russian President Vladimir Putin. "Avoiding bloodshed, internal confrontation, and clashes with unpredictable results was the highest goal," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Peskov further added that under the deal, Wagner fighters will also not be prosecuted. "We have always respected their heroic deeds at the front," he said. "An agreement has been reached that Wagner would return to its bases," Peskov said, adding that those fighters who had not participated in the rebellion would be allowed to formally join the Russian army. Wagner chief Prigozhin orders his fighters to retreat Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner mercenary group, ordered his fighters to retreat from their advance towards Moscow to prevent any violent confrontation or avert the potential bloodshed. Prigozhin revealed on Saturday that his forces had made significant progress, covering a distance of 200 km (124 miles) within the past 24 hours, but he has now issued orders for them to promptly return to their respective bases. This comes as Belarus claimed that President Alexander Lukashenko was able to persuade the Russian warlord Yevgeny Prigozhin to cease his march toward Moscow. If the claims are to be believed, it can lead to a potential end to the coup attempt in Russia, the first in the last 30 years. Media reports citing Lukashenko's press service said the president engaged in extensive negotiations with Prigozhin throughout the "entire day" after establishing a mutual understanding with Putin. Before his negotiations with Wagner's chief, he held talks with Putin and they agreed on joint actions and “additionally clarifying the situation through his own channels.” The press service stated that Prigozhin has accepted Lukashenko's appeal to halt the movement. It said Prigozhin had “accepted [Lukashenko’s] request to “stop the movement of armed men from the Wagner company on Russian territory and [take] further steps to de-escalate the situation.” “At the moment, there is an absolutely advantageous and acceptable way to defuse the situation on the table, with security guarantees for Wagner’s fighters,” Lukashenko’s press service said, as per media reports. Russian President Vladimir Putin thanks Lukashenko Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Saturday, thanked Belarus leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after the chief of mercenary group Wagner Yegevy Prigozhin announced he was turning around his forces. "The President of Belarus informed the President of Russia in detail about the results of negotiations with the leadership of PMC Wagner," Lukashenko's press service released a statement saying as quoted by news agency AFP, adding Putin "thanked his Belarusian colleague." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin to quit Russia and move to Belarus under deal to end mutiny

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has claimed that his country's military has modified the SU-24 warplanes to carry nuclear weapons.&nbsp;

Belarus had hosted Russian troops before the Ukraine invasion, however, the country does not possess nuclear weapons.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-russia-has-parked-iskander-m-missile-system-along-ukraine-448119">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Russia parks&nbsp;Iskander-M missile system along Ukraine</a>

Referring to the potential threat from neighbouring Poland, a NATO ally, Lukashenko, who is a staunch ally of President Putin, said: “They (the West) must understand that if they opt for escalation, no helicopters or planes will save them.” 
 
“It's not a good idea to escalate things with Belarus because that would be an escalation with the Union State (Russia and Belarus) which has nuclear weapons. If they start to create problems...the response will be immediate,” Lukashenko warned amid the Ukraine war.

Watch:&nbsp;&nbsp;Six months of Russia-Ukraine war

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Lukashenko had earlier accused the West of escalating tensions with Russia and provoking the Ukraine&nbsp;war. The Belarus president had said Ukraine must accept the loss of territory amid the war.

"We, along with Putin, said once in St. Petersburg that we will adapt the Belarusian Su 24 planes as well to make them capable to carry nuclear arms. Do you think we were just yakking? Everything is ready!" Lukashenko was quoted as saying in Minsk.

Reports claim Belarus had decommissioned its Su-24 fleet, however, there is no confirmation that it has been put back into action. Putin had promised to supply Iskander-M missile systems to Belarus after he met Lukashenko&nbsp;in St. Petersburg in June.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has claimed that his country's military has modified the SU-24 warplanes to carry nuclear weapons. Belarus had hosted Russian troops before the Ukraine invasion, however, the country does not possess nuclear weapons.

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko has claimed that his country's military has modified the SU-24 warplanes to carry nuclear weapons. Belarus had hosted Russian troops before the Ukraine invasion, however, the country does not possess nuclear weapons. Also Read in Pics: Russia parks Iskander-M missile system along Ukraine Referring to the potential threat from neighbouring Poland, a NATO ally, Lukashenko, who is a staunch ally of President Putin, said: “They (the West) must understand that if they opt for escalation, no helicopters or planes will save them.” “It's not a good idea to escalate things with Belarus because that would be an escalation with the Union State (Russia and Belarus) which has nuclear weapons. If they start to create problems...the response will be immediate,” Lukashenko warned amid the Ukraine war. Watch: Six months of Russia-Ukraine war Lukashenko had earlier accused the West of escalating tensions with Russia and provoking the Ukraine war. The Belarus president had said Ukraine must accept the loss of territory amid the war. "We, along with Putin, said once in St. Petersburg that we will adapt the Belarusian Su 24 planes as well to make them capable to carry nuclear arms. Do you think we were just yakking? Everything is ready!" Lukashenko was quoted as saying in Minsk. Reports claim Belarus had decommissioned its Su-24 fleet, however, there is no confirmation that it has been put back into action. Putin had promised to supply Iskander-M missile systems to Belarus after he met Lukashenko in St. Petersburg in June. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Belarusian warplanes ready to carry nuclear arms, says Putin's ally Lukashenko

Amid tensions with Belarus, Poland said hundreds of migrants had tried to breach the border.

President Alexander Lukashenko reportedly said that it was "absolutely possible" Belarus forces may have helped the migrants to cross the border.

Lukashenko told the BBC that he won't "detain migrants on the border". The Western countries have accused the Belarus president of igniting the migrant crisis at the border with Poland.

Polish border guards have reportedly detained several migrants after they attempted to cross the eastern border and attacked them with rocks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraqis-check-in-for-flight-home-after-failing-to-enter-eu-from-belarus-430323">Also Read:&nbsp;Iraqis check in for flight home after failing to enter EU from Belarus</a>

Reports claimed Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke to the Belarus president in an attempt to resolve the border crisis.

Amid the border row, Ukraine declared it hasn't ruled out the possibility of Russia "purposefully" sending a large number of migrants through Belarus into its territory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/poland-to-build-a-wall-as-migrant-crisis-escalates-at-belarus-poland-border-429730">Also Read:&nbsp;Poland to build a wall, as migrant crisis escalates at Belarus-Poland border</a>

There are at least 7,000 migrants in Belarus, according to officials. At least eleven migrants have died at the border since the crisis began this summer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-backs-lukashenko-as-migrant-crisis-escalates-at-belarus-poland-border-429584">Also Read:&nbsp;Russia backs Lukashenko as migrant crisis escalates at Belarus-Poland border</a>

Meanwhile, US secretary of state Antony Blinken called for the "weaponisation" of migration to stop as he indicated that the Biden administration could expand sanctions imposed on Belarus.

Most of the migrants are of Middle Eastern origin who have been trying to enter Europe with Poland as the gateway. They have been battling freezing conditions at the border triggering a&nbsp;humanitarian situation along the border.

Council of Europe human rights commissioner Dunja Mijatovic said the migrants had spent months under "squalid and extreme conditions" while calling for "pushbacks" to end.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions with Belarus, Poland said hundreds of migrants had tried to breach the border. President Alexander Lukashenko reportedly said that it was "absolutely possible" Belarus forces may have helped the migrants to cross the border.

Amid tensions with Belarus, Poland said hundreds of migrants had tried to breach the border. President Alexander Lukashenko reportedly said that it was "absolutely possible" Belarus forces may have helped the migrants to cross the border. Lukashenko told the BBC that he won't "detain migrants on the border". The Western countries have accused the Belarus president of igniting the migrant crisis at the border with Poland. Polish border guards have reportedly detained several migrants after they attempted to cross the eastern border and attacked them with rocks. Also Read: Iraqis check in for flight home after failing to enter EU from Belarus Reports claimed Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke to the Belarus president in an attempt to resolve the border crisis. Amid the border row, Ukraine declared it hasn't ruled out the possibility of Russia "purposefully" sending a large number of migrants through Belarus into its territory. Also Read: Poland to build a wall, as migrant crisis escalates at Belarus-Poland border There are at least 7,000 migrants in Belarus, according to officials. At least eleven migrants have died at the border since the crisis began this summer. Also Read: Russia backs Lukashenko as migrant crisis escalates at Belarus-Poland border Meanwhile, US secretary of state Antony Blinken called for the "weaponisation" of migration to stop as he indicated that the Biden administration could expand sanctions imposed on Belarus. Most of the migrants are of Middle Eastern origin who have been trying to enter Europe with Poland as the gateway. They have been battling freezing conditions at the border triggering a humanitarian situation along the border. Council of Europe human rights commissioner Dunja Mijatovic said the migrants had spent months under "squalid and extreme conditions" while calling for "pushbacks" to end. (With inputs from Agencies)

Poland-Belarus border row continues as Lukashenko says won't detain migrants

Amid tensions at the border over the migrant crisis, Poland's defence ministry said Belarus forces were sending migrants at the Kuznica border crossing.

Amid the escalating crisis, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen warned the EU will expand sanctions on Belarus and will target&nbsp;airlines&nbsp;which support "human trafficking".&nbsp;

Some carriers&nbsp;have already declared they won't be undertaking services to Belarus including&nbsp;Turkish Airlines.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/using-desperate-migrants-as-pawns-lukashenko-faces-sanctions-threat-pitches-for-russian-missiles-429281">Also Read:&nbsp;Lukashenko&nbsp;pitches for Russian missiles</a>

"Further sanctions against Belarus will become effective this afternoon. This is now the fifth wave," the European Commission chief said.

Amid the renewed sanctions, President Lukashenko said he did not want the crisis to turn into a conflict, however, he added that although authorities were telling the migrants to return home but they did not want to go back.

Watch:&nbsp;Humanitarian crisis at Belarus-Poland border

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The EU has accused Lukashenko of engineering the migrant crisis as relations between western nations and Belarus have hit rock bottom in the past year amid sanctions and protests in the country against Lukashenko's government.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/you-are-streetwise-and-i-am-street-tough-lukashenko-to-putin-429290">Also Read:&nbsp;You are streetwise and I am street tough, Lukashenko to Putin</a>

Meanwhile, the Baltic states Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania accused the Lukashenko regime of "instrumentalising migrants for political purposes".

However, the Putin regime which is Lukasheno principal ally defended the Belarus leader asserting that he wasn't creating the situation at the border even as Polish troops continue to push back migrants.

Reports say at least ten migrants have died at the border amid freezing condictions with several families including women and children stranded at the border as thousands of migrants of Middle Eastern origin have been trying to cross into Europe from Poland through the Belarus border even as&nbsp;aid agencies have warned the situation has led to a&nbsp;humanitarian crisis.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions at the border over the migrant crisis, Poland's defence ministry said Belarus forces were sending migrants at the Kuznica border crossing. Amid the escalating crisis, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen warned the EU will expand sanctions on Belarus and will target airlines which support "human trafficking".

Amid tensions at the border over the migrant crisis, Poland's defence ministry said Belarus forces were sending migrants at the Kuznica border crossing. Amid the escalating crisis, European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen warned the EU will expand sanctions on Belarus and will target airlines which support "human trafficking". Some carriers have already declared they won't be undertaking services to Belarus including Turkish Airlines. Also Read: Lukashenko pitches for Russian missiles "Further sanctions against Belarus will become effective this afternoon. This is now the fifth wave," the European Commission chief said. Amid the renewed sanctions, President Lukashenko said he did not want the crisis to turn into a conflict, however, he added that although authorities were telling the migrants to return home but they did not want to go back. Watch: Humanitarian crisis at Belarus-Poland border The EU has accused Lukashenko of engineering the migrant crisis as relations between western nations and Belarus have hit rock bottom in the past year amid sanctions and protests in the country against Lukashenko's government. Also Read: You are streetwise and I am street tough, Lukashenko to Putin Meanwhile, the Baltic states Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania accused the Lukashenko regime of "instrumentalising migrants for political purposes". However, the Putin regime which is Lukasheno principal ally defended the Belarus leader asserting that he wasn't creating the situation at the border even as Polish troops continue to push back migrants. Reports say at least ten migrants have died at the border amid freezing condictions with several families including women and children stranded at the border as thousands of migrants of Middle Eastern origin have been trying to cross into Europe from Poland through the Belarus border even as aid agencies have warned the situation has led to a humanitarian crisis. (With inputs from Agencies)

Russia backs Lukashenko as migrant crisis escalates at Belarus-Poland border

As pressure grows on Lukashenko to resolve the migrant crisis at the Polish border, the Belarus strongman has increasingly relied on his principal ally Russia to provide support.

In an interview, Lukashenko said he shares a lot of similarities with Russian President Putin.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/using-desperate-migrants-as-pawns-lukashenko-faces-sanctions-threat-pitches-for-russian-missiles-429281">Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;Lukashenko faces sanctions threat, pitches for Russian missiles</a>

"What is the similarity between us? When we sit at the table, I say 'listen, sometimes I wonder why we interpret reality the same way?' he told the reporter, adding, "philosophically speaking, you are streetwise and I am street tough," he told the interviewer while explaining his chat with Putin.

Watch:&nbsp;Migrants crisis unfolds at Belarus-Poland migrants

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In an apparent slip, Lukashenko said, "We came from the lowlife" as he was interrupted by his aid who corrected him to mean "grassroots".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-have-nothing-to-do-with-it-says-putin-on-belarus-poland-migrant-crisis-429022">Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;We have nothing to do with it, says Putin on Belarus-Poland migrant crisis</a>

Lukashenko said his childhood wasn't easy as he&nbsp;virtually grew up on the street while asserting that he shares the "same values" as the Russian president. "We grew up with those values. That is why we interpret reality the same way" the Belarus president said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrant-crisis-in-belarus-tests-putins-uneasy-alliance-with-lukashenko-429134">Also Read:&nbsp;Migrant crisis in Belarus tests Putin’s uneasy alliance with Lukashenko</a>

Putin and Lukashenko have cemented their relations in the past year amid sanctions imposed by the EU on Belarus. Troops from both sides conducted military drills with paratroopers as migrants continued to pour into the Poland-Belarus border.

Putin had in fact sought to resolve the crisis saying that, "we are ready to help it by all means" even as he blamed the EU for the crisis at the Polish border.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

As pressure grows on Lukashenko to resolve the migrant crisis at the Polish border, the Belarus strongman has increasingly relied on his principal ally Russia to provide support.

As pressure grows on Lukashenko to resolve the migrant crisis at the Polish border, the Belarus strongman has increasingly relied on his principal ally Russia to provide support. In an interview, Lukashenko said he shares a lot of similarities with Russian President Putin. Also Read: Lukashenko faces sanctions threat, pitches for Russian missiles "What is the similarity between us? When we sit at the table, I say 'listen, sometimes I wonder why we interpret reality the same way?' he told the reporter, adding, "philosophically speaking, you are streetwise and I am street tough," he told the interviewer while explaining his chat with Putin. Watch: Migrants crisis unfolds at Belarus-Poland migrants In an apparent slip, Lukashenko said, "We came from the lowlife" as he was interrupted by his aid who corrected him to mean "grassroots". Also Read: We have nothing to do with it, says Putin on Belarus-Poland migrant crisis Lukashenko said his childhood wasn't easy as he virtually grew up on the street while asserting that he shares the "same values" as the Russian president. "We grew up with those values. That is why we interpret reality the same way" the Belarus president said. Also Read: Migrant crisis in Belarus tests Putin’s uneasy alliance with Lukashenko Putin and Lukashenko have cemented their relations in the past year amid sanctions imposed by the EU on Belarus. Troops from both sides conducted military drills with paratroopers as migrants continued to pour into the Poland-Belarus border. Putin had in fact sought to resolve the crisis saying that, "we are ready to help it by all means" even as he blamed the EU for the crisis at the Polish border. (With inputs from Agencies)

You are streetwise and I am street tough, Lukashenko to Putin

&nbsp;Amid tensions over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nato-restricts-belarusian-access-to-headquarters-388648">Belarus</a>, Germany's transport ministry said today that it had blocked flights by Russian airlines after authorities failed to provide authorisation for Lufthansa.

Watch:

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Lufthansa had earlier said it had been given approval for the new routes for its flights to Moscow and St Petersburg.

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had earlier advised domestic and foreign airlines to avoid Belarusian airspace.

"Due to the reciprocal practice, the Federal Aviation Authority also did not issue any further permits for flights operated by Russian airlines as long as authorisations are pending on the Russian side," the German transport ministry said while adding that as soon as Lufthansa flights are granted authorisation&nbsp;by the Russian side, the flights from Russia&nbsp;would be approved.&nbsp;

EU has&nbsp;imposed a flight ban over Belarusian airspace after the forced landing of a plane by Lukashenko's regime and the arrest of a dissident journalist 26-year-old Roman Protasevich.

Lufthansa was among the airlines that had decided to stop flying over Belarus.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
"I think the flight restrictions, and particularly those on overflying of European territory are very tough for Belarus and then extra sanctions," French President Macron had said.

Macron insisted that the European nations have "reached a moment of truth" in its relationship with Russia which is an ally of the Lukashenko regime.

German foreign minister Heiko Maas had said earlier that President Lukashenko must pay a "bitter price" for detaining Protasevich as the White House announced that&nbsp;President Biden will take up the incident with Russian President Putin during their summit this month.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid tensions over Belarus, Germany's transport ministry said today that it had blocked flights by Russian airlines after authorities failed to provide authorisation for Lufthansa.

Amid tensions over Belarus, Germany's transport ministry said today that it had blocked flights by Russian airlines after authorities failed to provide authorisation for Lufthansa. Watch: Lufthansa had earlier said it had been given approval for the new routes for its flights to Moscow and St Petersburg. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had earlier advised domestic and foreign airlines to avoid Belarusian airspace. "Due to the reciprocal practice, the Federal Aviation Authority also did not issue any further permits for flights operated by Russian airlines as long as authorisations are pending on the Russian side," the German transport ministry said while adding that as soon as Lufthansa flights are granted authorisation by the Russian side, the flights from Russia would be approved. EU has imposed a flight ban over Belarusian airspace after the forced landing of a plane by Lukashenko's regime and the arrest of a dissident journalist 26-year-old Roman Protasevich. Lufthansa was among the airlines that had decided to stop flying over Belarus. "I think the flight restrictions, and particularly those on overflying of European territory are very tough for Belarus and then extra sanctions," French President Macron had said. Macron insisted that the European nations have "reached a moment of truth" in its relationship with Russia which is an ally of the Lukashenko regime. German foreign minister Heiko Maas had said earlier that President Lukashenko must pay a "bitter price" for detaining Protasevich as the White House announced that President Biden will take up the incident with Russian President Putin during their summit this month. (With inputs from Agencies)

In tit-for-tat move, Germany blocks Russian flights amid tensions over Belarus

As Europe continued its&nbsp;crackdown on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belarus-imposes-trade-barriers-on-ukraine-amid-plane-row-388073">Belarus</a>&nbsp;on Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed close ties with the country during his talks with Lukashenko.

Watch:

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Putin met the isolated Belarus leader at Russia's Black Sea resort of Sochi as the two leaders looked to "compare notes over the most pressing issues.

Lukashenko told Putin that the West was attempting to "rock the boat" after the EU lashed out at the Belarus regime over the forced diversion of a plane and the arrest of a dissident journalist Roman Protasevich.

"An attempt is underway to rock the boat to reach the level of last August," Lukashenko told Putin.

As talks progressed in Sochi, the Belarus opposition said it will hold a nationwide strike even as several nations imposed air restrictions on the country.

US and EU had already imposed sanctions on Belarus over the violent crackdown on protesters by Lukashenko after a disputed election last year.

Opposition forces led by Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya who is currently living in exile said that "protests will continue and workers are being prepared for a nationwide strike."

Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov that Belarus government's air travel row with Europe was "technical" in nature

"The aviation authorities work hard these days and the situation is extraordinary," the Kremlin said," adding,"But if they have arisen because of the European Union decisions and companies that have listened to Brussels' recommendations, then technical hiccups are inevitable. But we are working hard to eliminate them."

(With Agency inputs)

As Europe continued its crackdown on Belarus on Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed close ties with the country during his talks with Lukashenko. Watch: Putin met the isolated Belarus leader at Russia's Black Sea resort of Sochi as the two leaders looked to "compare notes over the most pressing issues.

As Europe continued its crackdown on Belarus on Friday, Russian President Vladimir Putin hailed close ties with the country during his talks with Lukashenko. Watch: Putin met the isolated Belarus leader at Russia's Black Sea resort of Sochi as the two leaders looked to "compare notes over the most pressing issues. Lukashenko told Putin that the West was attempting to "rock the boat" after the EU lashed out at the Belarus regime over the forced diversion of a plane and the arrest of a dissident journalist Roman Protasevich. "An attempt is underway to rock the boat to reach the level of last August," Lukashenko told Putin. As talks progressed in Sochi, the Belarus opposition said it will hold a nationwide strike even as several nations imposed air restrictions on the country. US and EU had already imposed sanctions on Belarus over the violent crackdown on protesters by Lukashenko after a disputed election last year. Opposition forces led by Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya who is currently living in exile said that "protests will continue and workers are being prepared for a nationwide strike." Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov that Belarus government's air travel row with Europe was "technical" in nature "The aviation authorities work hard these days and the situation is extraordinary," the Kremlin said," adding,"But if they have arisen because of the European Union decisions and companies that have listened to Brussels' recommendations, then technical hiccups are inevitable. But we are working hard to eliminate them." (With Agency inputs)

Attempt underway to rock the boat, Lukashenko tells Putin at Sochi meet

Skii-lful evening: Putin and Lukashenko go skiing to discuss important matters

Belarus has been marred by anti-government protests for months. Now, protesters have found a new way to outsmart the administration to continue protests against President Alexander Lukashenko.

Instead of convening a full scale single protest, opponents are now convening in smaller gatherings across districts, which has proven to be a challenge for law enforcement authorities.

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On Sunday alone, thousands took to the streets in Minsk. Since August, the country has been witnessing protests after Lukashenko secured his sixth term as president of the country. Opposition leaders and analysts have called his reelection staged.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/belarus-president-alexander-lukashenko-to-resign-if-new-constitution-is-adopted-346029" hreflang="en">Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko to resign if new constitution is adopted</a>

They also claim that his opponent Svetlana&nbsp;Tikhanovskaya is the true winner of the elections, who ran in the place of her husband, who was jailed by authorities.

Recently, authorities have become fiercer in terms of their crackdown on protesters, where by hundreds have been detained, and many have been prevented from convening in the capital. As part of the new tactic, twenty new rallies were recorded across the city on Sunday.

"Large columns of people have assembled in all districts of Minsk, without exception. The Lukashenko police are desperately rushing from district to district," said opposition Telegram channel Nexta Live.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/belarus-police-uses-tear-gas-stun-grenades-to-disperse-protesters-343492" hreflang="en">Belarus police uses tear gas, stun grenades to disperse protesters</a>

Due to the protests, metro stations in the city have remained shut, with limited access to mobile connections.

Riot police has also been deployed across the city in huge numbers. According to the news website Tut.by, stun grenades and tear gas are being used against protesters. According to the human rights group Viasna, at least 20 people have been taken into police custody.

"Everyone takes to the streets in their district and sees dozens, hundreds and thousands of supporters," Tikhanovskaya, 38, said in a video address.

Belarus has been marred by anti-government protests for months. Now, protesters have found a new way to outsmart the administration to continue protests against President Alexander Lukashenko.

Belarus has been marred by anti-government protests for months. Now, protesters have found a new way to outsmart the administration to continue protests against President Alexander Lukashenko. Instead of convening a full scale single protest, opponents are now convening in smaller gatherings across districts, which has proven to be a challenge for law enforcement authorities. On Sunday alone, thousands took to the streets in Minsk. Since August, the country has been witnessing protests after Lukashenko secured his sixth term as president of the country. Opposition leaders and analysts have called his reelection staged. Also read: Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko to resign if new constitution is adopted They also claim that his opponent Svetlana Tikhanovskaya is the true winner of the elections, who ran in the place of her husband, who was jailed by authorities. Recently, authorities have become fiercer in terms of their crackdown on protesters, where by hundreds have been detained, and many have been prevented from convening in the capital. As part of the new tactic, twenty new rallies were recorded across the city on Sunday. "Large columns of people have assembled in all districts of Minsk, without exception. The Lukashenko police are desperately rushing from district to district," said opposition Telegram channel Nexta Live. Also read: Belarus police uses tear gas, stun grenades to disperse protesters Due to the protests, metro stations in the city have remained shut, with limited access to mobile connections. Riot police has also been deployed across the city in huge numbers. According to the news website Tut.by, stun grenades and tear gas are being used against protesters. According to the human rights group Viasna, at least 20 people have been taken into police custody. "Everyone takes to the streets in their district and sees dozens, hundreds and thousands of supporters," Tikhanovskaya, 38, said in a video address.

Anti-Lukashenko protesters in Belarus try out new strategy to outsmart authorities

According to reports, President Lukashenko's government in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-imposes-sanctions-on-lukashenko-citing-worsening-situation-in-belarus-334906">Belarus</a> has put opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on its "wanted list".

Watch:

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Russia's state-owned RIA news agency reported that Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya was put on the "wanted list" by the Belarus government over allegedly making calls to overthrow the constitutional order.

Tsikhanouskaya had fled to Lithuania after the disputed August 9 elections which was claimed by Lukashenko. Tsikhanouskaya was later seen in Berlin where she met Chancellor Merkel while calling for Lukashenko's removal.

Tikhanovskaya,38, had earlier given an ultimatum to Lukashenko quit by October 25 and halt the "state terror". "If our demands are not met by October 25, the whole country will peacefully take to the streets," Tsikhanouskaya had said in a statement.

"And on October 26 a nationwide strike will begin at all enterprises, all roads will be blocked, and sales at state stores will collapse," she said, adding, "You have 13 days,"&nbsp;

Sviatlana's husband Sergei Tikhanovsky has been jailed by Lukashenko's regime.

Belarus has witnessed large scale street protests against Lukashenko who has been in power since 1994. Several people have been arrested in anti-government protests in the country. 
&nbsp; 
Tsikhanouskaya has also appeared on Russia's wanted list after the interior ministry asserted due to an agreement reached earlier on a regional block in which both Russia and Belarus were members.

According to reports, President Lukashenko's government in Belarus has put opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on its "wanted list". Watch: Russia's state-owned RIA news agency reported that Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya was put on the "wanted list" by the Belarus government over allegedly making calls to overthrow the constitutional order.

According to reports, President Lukashenko's government in Belarus has put opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on its "wanted list". Watch: Russia's state-owned RIA news agency reported that Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya was put on the "wanted list" by the Belarus government over allegedly making calls to overthrow the constitutional order. Tsikhanouskaya had fled to Lithuania after the disputed August 9 elections which was claimed by Lukashenko. Tsikhanouskaya was later seen in Berlin where she met Chancellor Merkel while calling for Lukashenko's removal. Tikhanovskaya,38, had earlier given an ultimatum to Lukashenko quit by October 25 and halt the "state terror". "If our demands are not met by October 25, the whole country will peacefully take to the streets," Tsikhanouskaya had said in a statement. "And on October 26 a nationwide strike will begin at all enterprises, all roads will be blocked, and sales at state stores will collapse," she said, adding, "You have 13 days," Sviatlana's husband Sergei Tikhanovsky has been jailed by Lukashenko's regime. Belarus has witnessed large scale street protests against Lukashenko who has been in power since 1994. Several people have been arrested in anti-government protests in the country. Tsikhanouskaya has also appeared on Russia's wanted list after the interior ministry asserted due to an agreement reached earlier on a regional block in which both Russia and Belarus were members.

Lukashenko regime in Belarus puts opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on 'wanted list'

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko's plane landed in the southern Russian city of Sochi on Monday morning ahead of talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Flight tracking data showed Lukashenko's plane touched down in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, where Putin often hosts visiting dignitaries.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-belarus-falls-russia-will-be-next-says-lukashenko-326093">If Belarus falls, Russia will be next, says Lukashenko</a>

Lukashenko&nbsp;is seeking Moscow's backing after a fifth consecutive weekend of huge protests demanding his resignation.

The fate of the Belarusian leader is in Putin's hands as he faces the gravest crisis of his 26 years in power. Economic and military support from Moscow could help tip the balance in his favour as his security forces crack down hard on the opposition.

The Belarusian opposition accuses Lukashenko of rigging last month's presidential election, which he says he won fairly with 80% of the vote. Since then, thousands of people have been arrested and nearly all the opposition's key leaders have been detained, deported or forced to flee the country.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/we-come-in-peace-belarusian-women-dressed-in-white-protest-against-corrupt-leadership-321060">We come in peace: Belarusian women dressed in white protest against corrupt leadership</a>

At least 100,000 protesters took to the streets of the capital Minsk on Sunday, taunting Lukashenko with chants of "You're a rat". Police said they detained 774 people at protests across the country.

Putin's actions so far suggest he has no desire to see the leader of a neighbouring ex-Soviet country toppled by pressure from the streets - even if Lukashenko has often proved a prickly and difficult ally.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-and-lukashenko-to-discuss-integration-amid-belarus-protests-326896">Putin and Lukashenko to discuss 'integration' amid Belarus protests</a>

The Kremlin leader said last month he had set up a "reserve police force" at Lukashenko's request, though it would be deployed only if needed. On Monday Russia will send paratroopers to Belarus for joint "Slavic brotherhood" military drills until September&nbsp;25, as per the defence ministry.

Russia has also offered to restructure Belarusian debt and support the banking system.

Belarus is the former Soviet republic with the closest political, social, economic and defence relationships with Russia. The two countries even proclaimed a "union state" in the 1990s, complete with a Soviet-style red flag.

The cost of further backing from Moscow could be Lukashenko's acceptance of even greater Russian dominance. The Kremlin has long pushed for closer integration, including a joint currency. Lukashenko has resisted some of those measures, and has had a difficult personal relationship with Putin.

Yet the Belarusian leader's position could become more precarious should the protests persist. Sunday's demonstration was one of the biggest yet.

"We have to show with this march that he doesn't control the country, that he is not in a position to speak on behalf of Belarusians," said Gennady, 35, a logistics worker who declined to give his last name.

&nbsp;

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko's plane landed in the southern Russian city of Sochi on Monday morning ahead of talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko's plane landed in the southern Russian city of Sochi on Monday morning ahead of talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Flight tracking data showed Lukashenko's plane touched down in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, where Putin often hosts visiting dignitaries. Also read: If Belarus falls, Russia will be next, says Lukashenko Lukashenko is seeking Moscow's backing after a fifth consecutive weekend of huge protests demanding his resignation. The fate of the Belarusian leader is in Putin's hands as he faces the gravest crisis of his 26 years in power. Economic and military support from Moscow could help tip the balance in his favour as his security forces crack down hard on the opposition. The Belarusian opposition accuses Lukashenko of rigging last month's presidential election, which he says he won fairly with 80% of the vote. Since then, thousands of people have been arrested and nearly all the opposition's key leaders have been detained, deported or forced to flee the country. Also see: We come in peace: Belarusian women dressed in white protest against corrupt leadership At least 100,000 protesters took to the streets of the capital Minsk on Sunday, taunting Lukashenko with chants of "You're a rat". Police said they detained 774 people at protests across the country. Putin's actions so far suggest he has no desire to see the leader of a neighbouring ex-Soviet country toppled by pressure from the streets - even if Lukashenko has often proved a prickly and difficult ally. Also read: Putin and Lukashenko to discuss 'integration' amid Belarus protests The Kremlin leader said last month he had set up a "reserve police force" at Lukashenko's request, though it would be deployed only if needed. On Monday Russia will send paratroopers to Belarus for joint "Slavic brotherhood" military drills until September 25, as per the defence ministry. Russia has also offered to restructure Belarusian debt and support the banking system. Belarus is the former Soviet republic with the closest political, social, economic and defence relationships with Russia. The two countries even proclaimed a "union state" in the 1990s, complete with a Soviet-style red flag. The cost of further backing from Moscow could be Lukashenko's acceptance of even greater Russian dominance. The Kremlin has long pushed for closer integration, including a joint currency. Lukashenko has resisted some of those measures, and has had a difficult personal relationship with Putin. Yet the Belarusian leader's position could become more precarious should the protests persist. Sunday's demonstration was one of the biggest yet. "We have to show with this march that he doesn't control the country, that he is not in a position to speak on behalf of Belarusians," said Gennady, 35, a logistics worker who declined to give his last name.

Belarusian leader Lukashenko reaches Russia to win Putin's backing

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday suggested that Russia would be next if his regime falls in the face of a wave of mass demonstrations.

"You know what we concluded with the Russian establishment and leadership? If Belarus falls, Russia will be next," state news agency RIA Novosti quoted Lukashenko as saying in an interview with several Russian media.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-vows-military-support-for-belarus-lukashenko-323552">Russian President Putin vows military support for Belarus' Lukashenko</a>

He also said he may have stayed in power as president a little too long, but said he was the only person capable of protecting the country for now.

Lukashenko&nbsp;has ruled Belarus since 1994 and claimed victory in a contested August&nbsp;9 presidential election which his opponents say was massively rigged.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-to-impose-sanctions-on-31-senior-belarusian-officials-over-recent-election-report-325762">EU to impose sanctions on 31 senior Belarusian officials over recent election: Report</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin has already vowed military support for embattled Belarusian leader, although it would not be deployed unless unrest there spun out of control.

The 65-year-old Belarusian strongman's relationship with Putin had soured ahead of the ballot because Minsk refused closer integration with Russia and even claimed Moscow had sent mercenaries across the border to organise riots. Russia sees Belarus as a strategic buffer against NATO and the EU.

The neighbours had signed an agreement in 1999 which was supposed to create a unified state. The unification project was never properly implemented and more recently Lukashenko had rejected calls by Moscow for closer economic and political ties as an assault on his country's sovereignty.

Russia has been wary of unrest on its borders since Georgia's 2003 Rose Revolution, Ukraine's 2003-04 Orange Revolution and 2014 Maidan protests,&nbsp;events in which it says the West backed the protesters.

The European Union is set to impose economic sanctions on 31 senior Belarusian officials.&nbsp;The list will include Belarus’ interior minister, and will be put out by mid-September, three EU diplomats claimed.

&nbsp;

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday suggested that Russia would be next if his regime falls in the face of a wave of mass demonstrations. "You know what we concluded with the Russian establishment and leadership?

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko on Tuesday suggested that Russia would be next if his regime falls in the face of a wave of mass demonstrations. "You know what we concluded with the Russian establishment and leadership? If Belarus falls, Russia will be next," state news agency RIA Novosti quoted Lukashenko as saying in an interview with several Russian media. Also read: Russian President Putin vows military support for Belarus' Lukashenko He also said he may have stayed in power as president a little too long, but said he was the only person capable of protecting the country for now. Lukashenko has ruled Belarus since 1994 and claimed victory in a contested August 9 presidential election which his opponents say was massively rigged. Also read: EU to impose sanctions on 31 senior Belarusian officials over recent election: Report Russian President Vladimir Putin has already vowed military support for embattled Belarusian leader, although it would not be deployed unless unrest there spun out of control. The 65-year-old Belarusian strongman's relationship with Putin had soured ahead of the ballot because Minsk refused closer integration with Russia and even claimed Moscow had sent mercenaries across the border to organise riots. Russia sees Belarus as a strategic buffer against NATO and the EU. The neighbours had signed an agreement in 1999 which was supposed to create a unified state. The unification project was never properly implemented and more recently Lukashenko had rejected calls by Moscow for closer economic and political ties as an assault on his country's sovereignty. Russia has been wary of unrest on its borders since Georgia's 2003 Rose Revolution, Ukraine's 2003-04 Orange Revolution and 2014 Maidan protests, events in which it says the West backed the protesters. The European Union is set to impose economic sanctions on 31 senior Belarusian officials. The list will include Belarus’ interior minister, and will be put out by mid-September, three EU diplomats claimed.

If Belarus falls, Russia will be next, says Lukashenko