A historic meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Belarusian Democratic Forces leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya took place in Vilnius. This first official meeting, organized on Sunday evening, opened a new page in the political relations between the two countries. Tikhanovskaya thanked the Ukrainian leader for supporting democratic actions, especially for receiving political prisoners.
The memory of rebellion against the Russian Empire and general strategy
Politicians visited the Rasu Cemetery in Vilnius and paid tribute to the memory of the victims of the January Uprising of 1863-1864. The Presidents of Poland and Lithuania also took part in the event.
- Historical unity: Zelenskyy recognized this uprising as a common struggle of the peoples of Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, and Belarus against Russian colonialism.
- Accountability: The parties discussed strengthening sanctions policy against the Lukashenko regime and developing a common strategy with international partners.
"Lukashenko's dog has more rights than the people"
In his speech, Volodymyr Zelenskyy sharply criticized the current situation in Belarus. In his opinion, the country is now being forced to live like a Russian "General Governor-Generalship."
- The bitter truth: Speaking about the events of 2020, the President regretfully noted that at that time the Belarusian people did not receive sufficient international support.
- Weapons of blackmail: Zelenskyy emphasized that Belarusian territory is being used to strike Ukraine with drones, circumvent sanctions, and intimidate the world with "reserves."
Official invitation to Kyiv and appointment of a new representative
During the meeting, Tikhanovskaya proposed appointing a special representative to Ukraine for Belarus. This proposal will serve to transition bilateral relations to a permanent and systematic basis.
- Official invitation: Zelenskyy invited Svetlana Tikhanovskaya to Kyiv on an official visit. This is an important step that has been expected since 2022.
- Factors that were previously obstacles: Previously, it was stated that such meetings were hindered by Lukashenko's sharp reaction and the preservation of economic ties.
Concluding his speech, Zelenskyy once again emphasized the vital importance for Europe not to lose any freedom-loving people, including the Belarusians. He expressed confidence that the opportunity lost in 2020 will definitely return to the Belarusian people.
How much do you think the rapprochement of the democratic forces of Ukraine and Belarus could change the geopolitical situation in the region?
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