Edith Hejberg
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, often branded in the West as “Europe’s last dictator,” has hinted he may not seek another term in office.
The 71-year-old’s potential departure could significantly weaken Vladimir Putin’s network of European allies.
A Carefully Worded Response
Speaking to Belarusian Time’s Simon Shuster, Lukashenko said, “No, I am not making any plans now.
I am not planning anything.” While sounding non-committal, he added a pointed remark comparing himself to Donald Trump, noting that Trump is “nearly 80” yet still appears “presentable.”
No Dynastic Succession
The Belarusian leader ruled out the idea of passing the presidency to his son, Nikolai. “No, he’s not a successor,” Lukashenko stressed, dismissing the notion outright and joking that such a suggestion might offend his son.
A Long Grip on Power
Lukashenko has ruled Belarus since 1994, becoming an increasingly authoritarian figure.
His most recent re-election in January marked his seventh term, with every vote since his first deemed unfree and unfair by international monitors.
Political Vision for a Successor
While saying the next president could adopt different policies, Lukashenko urged they avoid radical change.
He advised building on existing structures and “leaning on the shoulders of the strong” rather than pursuing “destructive revolutionary upheaval.”
The 2020 Election Crisis
In 2020, Belarus faced mass protests after an election widely seen as rigged. Opposition candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya claimed she had secured at least 60% of the vote.
Her team formed the Coordination Council to lead long-term protests against the official results.
Crackdown on Opposition
Authorities responded harshly to the 2020 unrest. All seven members of the Coordination Council’s Presidium were either jailed or forced into exile, cementing Lukashenko’s grip on power but drawing widespread condemnation abroad.
Strained International Image
Lukashenko’s contested rule has left him isolated from much of Europe. However, he has remained one of Putin’s staunchest supporters, providing Moscow with a reliable political and strategic partner on the continent.
A Potential Blow for Putin
If Lukashenko steps aside, Putin could lose his most dependable ally in Europe at a time of heightened geopolitical tension.
The move would also open questions about Belarus’s future foreign policy direction.
An Uncertain Political Future
For now, Lukashenko appears to be keeping his options open. His comments suggest he is contemplating life after politics, but his history of staying in power leaves many skeptical about whether he will actually step down.
