June 24, 2021 — In response to new human-rights related sanctions by Western countries, Belarus is strengthening its relationship with Russia.
“We are categorically against sanctions. Recently, unfortunately, politicians in the West have shown a lowered level of political responsibility and literacy. They assumed the right to say what is right and what is wrong, to promote ‘lofty values’ and force everyone to comply with these ‘values’,” said Vladimir Makei, Belarus’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, told BELTA, a state-run news agency in Belarus.
Earlier this week, the European Union, United States, United Kingdom, and Canada announced new rounds of sanctions against individuals and entities close to the Alexander Lukashenko regime. It comes in response to worsening political repression, including a forced landing of RyanAir Flight FR4978 and subsequent arrest of two passengers. The EU alone sanctioned more than 70 individuals and fifteen entities within Belarus.
Retaliation Possible
The minister indicated Belarus may retaliate if countries pass additional sanctions. Furthermore, Makei indicated other countries and partners that join the retaliatory measures. Makei states that Belarus is interested to see what the European Union does in response to the continued sanctions.
Makei informed BELTA in a separate interview on June 18th that President Alexander Lukashenko, of Belarus, and President Vladimir Putin, from Russia, have met three times this year. The Belarusian and Russian heads of government have had meetings as well. According to the Minister, these meetings are intended to discuss foreign policy actions of both countries.
A Pawn Between Russia and NATO?
Meanwhile, Gitanas Nauseda, President of Lithuania, told CNBC in an exclusive interview that Belarus could be used as a weapon by Russia towards NATO. Nauseda described Belarus as another Crimea.
Makei urged Belarusians to not concern themselves about the increase in sanctions.
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