Belarusians are not Lukashenko regime and Belarus should not be put in one basket with Russia / day

Cihanouska said that since the beginning of 2020, every time they arrive in Latvia, there is tremendous solidarity. The leader of the Belarusian Democratic Forces emphasized that Latvia and the friends of our Baltic and Nordic countries were on the side of the Belarusian people.

« You opened your homes and hearts for thousands of people fled from repression. The Latvian parliamentarians became symbolic godparents to our political prisoners. And even today, despite many pressures, Latvia continues to act, » said Cihanouska.

She stressed that Latvia is in favor of the release of Belarus political refugees and to use Belarusian license plates in Latvia. The leader of the Belarusian Democratic Forces hopes that Latvia will soon do the same for real estate. She thanked Latvia for making a distinction – Belarusians were not Lukashenko regime, and Belarus should not be put in one basket with Russia.

She pointed out that on May 9, we commemorate the victims of World War II. Cihanouska emphasized that the day once created to celebrate victory over evil is now being used to justify evil, both in Minsk and Moscow, military parades and propaganda shows. « But you should not be fooled – it is not a celebration of peace. These are justification campaigns that try to explain and support a brutal war on aggression. It is important to speak clearly: (Russian dictator Vladimir) Putin is the aggressor, and Lukashenko is also the aggressor, » said the leader of the Belarusian democratic forces.

In her opinion, if in 2020, Lukashenko had not been suppressed by Moscow, perhaps a full -scale invasion of Ukraine would never have happened in 2022. According to Cihanouska, current peace talks are not just about Ukraine, they will affect the whole region – Belarus, Moldova, Armenia and the Baltic States.

« I really believe that these conversations can bring peace, but they also raise new risks. If Putin remains unpunished, he will further strengthen his power over Belarus. A new escalation will always be right around the corner, and then the threat can reach the threshold of your home, » said the leader of the Belarusian democratic forces.

In her opinion, if the peace is reached in the conditions laid down in Ukraine and Russia will be weakened, a new window of possibilities will also be opened for Belarus. Cihanouska emphasized that the democratic transition process could become possible and must be ready.

The leader of the Belarusian Democratic Forces emphasized that while Lukashenko is in power, Belarus will remain on a constant threat, a source of instability and a Russian military platform. Therefore, the objective must be sustainable and irreversible changes – the release of Belarus from Russia’s control. She also added that new Yalta should not be allowed.

« Putin dreams of restoring an area of ​​influence, treating us, our nations, like disobedient children to be taken over by Moscow control. We need to refuse it. We must be consistent not only in support of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, but also in defending Belarusian independence and sovereignty, » Cihanous.

She noted that Russian troops should leave not only Ukraine but also Belarus, including nuclear weapons. Cihanouska admitted that the release of Belarus from Russia’s military and political influence would be a huge blow to Putin and a great benefit to both Ukraine and the security of the region as a whole.

« All we want is the opportunity for Belarusians to choose their own future. In 2020, the Belarusian people voted for change. They voted for Europe. Despite their terror, their desire has not changed, » said the leader of the Belarusian democratic forces.

In her view, as soon as Belarus regains its sovereignty, the country will immediately begin the process of European integration – just as Latvians did it 20 years ago. Cihanouska confirmed that Latvia’s example inspires Belarusians, because only in Europe – not in the « Russian world » – can preserve Belarusian identity, language and future.

« All the democratic forces agreed that our destination should be in the European Union. And while this path can still be distant, we have a real and reachable intermediate – joining the Nordic and Baltic community, » said the leader of the Belarusian Democratic Forces.

She said Belarus is very fortunate with such neighbors, and she believes that one day the Nordic -Baltic and Baltic eight will become nine. Cihanouska is aware that a long way to go. She pointed out that the regime should be demolished, helping Ukraine to endure, restoring justice, institutions.

« But our hope is also. The struggle for freedom cannot be won alone. And we are grateful and happy that we have allies like you. So let’s look at Belarus not only as a threat, but also as an opportunity – the opportunity for a stronger and safer Europe. Thank you for your solidarity and thank you for your courage.