Belarusian opposition leader sees Ukraine's victory as chance for regime change in Belarus
Source: Tsikhanouskaya speaking in Warsaw on 26 January, as reported by European Pravda citing Zerkalo, a Belarusian media outlet
Details: Tsikhanouskaya outlined several scenarios that could create a window of opportunity for regime change in Belarus, all the while Alexander Lukashenko is being "re-elected" for the seventh term in the sham elections on 26 January.
Firstly, she noted that such an opportunity would arise with Ukraine's victory in the Russo-Ukrainian war.
Quote: "This is why I support giving Ukraine everything possible to ensure their victory and to put them in a strong position during negotiations. Ukraine's victory means a weakened Putin, and consequently, a weakened Lukashenko. He is already very weak, relying solely on Putin's support."
Details: Tsikhanouskaya also said a window of opportunity could emerge due to economic issues faced by Belarus.
Quote: "This could happen because of some economic problems if Lukashenko's pockets are empty due to sanctions. And the regime will not be able to maintain so-called economic stability in Belarus."
More details: Additionally, Tsikhanouskaya suggested that a regime change could be linked to Lukashenko's health.
"We shouldn't count on this, but it's also possible. Or it could be another unexpected event – a so-called 'black swan' – that could appear suddenly," she added.
Tsikhanouskaya stated that the task of democratic forces and Belarusians is to be prepared for such a moment.
Background:
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas and EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos issued a joint statement declaring the Belarusian presidential "elections" on 26 January as fraudulent.
Lukashenko responded, saying he "don't care" whether the West recognises the presidential "elections".
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