In an extensive interview with Ukrainska Pravda, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, the leader of Belarus’s democratic movement, delved into the intertwined struggles of Belarus and Ukraine. She underscored the critical importance of a Ukrainian victory for safeguarding democracy across the region.
Addressing Belarus’s internal challenges, the repercussions of Russian aggression, and her vision for the country’s future, Tsikhanouskaya highlighted the enduring resilience of Belarusian civil society under the oppressive rule of Alexander Lukashenko.
Belarusian Support for Ukraine
Tsikhanouskaya emphasised the solidarity between the people of Belarus and Ukraine. Despite Lukashenko’s alignment with Moscow, Tsikhanouskaya affirmed that the Belarusian populace remains firmly opposed to the war, with only a small fraction supporting military engagement.
“Our soldiers, if forced into the conflict, would either surrender or join the Ukrainian side,” she said. She also noted the significant contribution of Belarusian volunteers in Ukraine, such as the Kalinouski Regiment, which has become a symbol of resistance against Russian imperialism.
She praised Belarusian citizens who have supported Ukraine through financial contributions, humanitarian aid, and sabotage operations aimed at disrupting Russian military logistics. However, these acts of solidarity have not come without cost.
“At least 500 political prisoners in Belarus are behind bars for aiding Ukraine,” Tsikhanouskaya revealed.
Russia as a Common Adversary
Addressing Belarus’s complicated relationship with Russia, Tsikhanouskaya reiterated that Moscow remains the principal threat to Belarusian sovereignty. “We always understood that Russia is the enemy of Belarusian independence,” she stated. However, she acknowledged the delicate diplomatic position the opposition held during the 2020 protests, focusing on countering Lukashenko without provoking direct confrontation with Russia.
The atrocities in Bucha, Irpin, and Mariupol have since shattered any illusion of diplomacy.
“There is no room for half-measures anymore. Russia’s aggression must be confronted head-on,” Tsikhanouskaya declared.
A Vision of Victory
For Tsikhanouskaya, Ukraine’s success is inextricably linked to the liberation of Belarus. “Victory for Ukraine means the withdrawal of Russian forces from all Ukrainian territories and the end of Moscow’s influence in Belarus,” she stated.
She dismissed any notion of freezing the conflict, warning that it would lead to prolonged instability and empower autocratic regimes.
“A frozen war benefits no one but tyrants,” she argued. “The global democratic community must not allow dictatorships to claim victory.”
Tsikhanouskaya called for increased international support for Ukraine, urging Western nations to provide the weaponry necessary to ensure not just Ukraine’s survival but its outright victory. She also appealed for stronger backing of Belarus’s democratic movement, which she believes has been underfunded compared to the scale of the challenges it faces.
Belarus’s Path Forward
Reflecting on the state of Belarus’s opposition movement, Tsikhanouskaya admitted that the 2020 protests underestimated the brutality of Lukashenko’s regime and the extent of Putin’s support. “We lacked media platforms, political organisations, and international backing,” she said, contrasting the Belarusian struggle with Ukraine’s more structured resistance during the Euromaidan.
Nonetheless, she pointed to significant progress since 2020, including the establishment of democratic institutions in exile and growing national consciousness among Belarusians. “The events of 2020 were a turning point. Belarusians are reclaiming their identity and culture, even under repression.”
Tsikhanouskaya also highlighted efforts to integrate Belarus into Europe, citing the democratic movement’s participation in the Council of Europe and its work on constitutional reforms aimed at paving the way for eventual EU membership. “Belarus belongs to the European family,” she affirmed.
On the International Stage
While Tsikhanouskaya enjoys recognition in the West, she acknowledged the complexity of her role. “Some leaders call me the elected president, others the leader of the democratic movement. What matters is that I represent an alternative to Lukashenko,” she said.
She remains pragmatic in her dealings with Ukraine’s government, avoiding actions that might complicate relations. “Our principle is to do no harm to Ukraine. We understand their priorities and work within those limits,” she explained.
The Future of Belarus
When asked about the potential for change in Belarus, Tsikhanouskaya expressed hope but remained realistic. “We prefer a peaceful transition through free and fair elections, but other scenarios, including internal power shifts, are possible,” she said. She emphasised the importance of readiness among opposition forces and the potential role of Belarusian fighters in Ukraine in shaping the country’s future.
Tsikhanouskaya concluded by reiterating the intertwined destinies of Belarus and Ukraine. “There can be no free Belarus without a free Ukraine, and vice versa. Together, we will triumph over tyranny and secure a democratic future for our nations.”
