The Belarusian leader, Alexandr Lukashenko, known for his admiration for Fidel Castro and Hugo Chávez, addressed the media for approximately four and a half hours after being reelected in a presidential election that has generated controversy. In his speech, Lukashenko expressed his awareness of his own mortality and his disinterest in seeking reelection, raising the question of who might succeed him in the future.
dismissing the possibility of a woman becoming a dictator, Lukashenko rejected the idea that his 20-year-old son Kolia, currently studying in China, could be his successor. He stated that it is time to relinquish power, although his son succinctly responded that he is not interested in being president.
The Belarusian leader remained firm before the press, refusing to dialogue with the opposition, grant pardons to political prisoners without asking for forgiveness, and allow the free return of exiles, who would have to face legal scrutiny. Lukashenko also emphasized the imminent arrival of Russian hypersonic ballistic missiles, considering them a response to plans by the United States to deploy missiles in Europe. Furthermore, he asserted that Belarus will not give up the tactical nuclear weapons that Russia has deployed in its territory since the beginning of the war in Ukraine.
After his reelection, Lukashenko reiterated his commitment to Russia and his willingness to normalize relations with the West. Despite criticism and a lack of recognition from some Western countries, the Belarusian leader hinted at the possibility of a thaw in international relations.