August M
A Latvian political scientist has claimed Russian and Belarusian leaders appeared uneasy during this year’s Victory Day events in Moscow, pointing to what he described as unusual behaviour from Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.
The comments came after Russia’s annual May 9 military celebrations, which took place under heightened security and amid continuing tensions linked to the war in Ukraine, reports LA.LV.
Focus on Lukashenko
Speaking on TV24’s “Person of the Day” programme, University of Latvia lecturer Andis Kudors said viewers should closely examine footage from the event in Moscow.
“I recommend that viewers watch the recordings and pay attention to where Lukashenko is looking,” Kudors said.
According to the political scientist, the Belarusian leader repeatedly looked upwards toward the sky throughout the ceremony.
“His eyes were always looking up and looking at the sky,” he added.
Kudors suggested the behaviour reflected concerns about possible security threats, including fears of drone attacks during the high-profile gathering.
Security concerns
The analyst also argued that Russian President Vladimir Putin likely felt “more or less safe” because Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had effectively allowed the event to proceed without disruption.
Even so, Kudors claimed both Russian and Belarusian leadership figures appeared tense during the celebrations.
He pointed to what he described as a reduced-scale event, saying fewer people attended, military displays were more limited and some senior officials were not visibly present.
According to Kudors, the shorter parade and smaller equipment showcase may indicate broader concerns inside the Kremlin over security and internal stability.
Fear of instability
The political scientist further suggested authoritarian leaders often fear threats from both external enemies and individuals within their own systems.
“Putin is probably even afraid of an assassination, that one of his own might do something,” Kudors said during the broadcast.
He added: “Dictators are afraid. They are afraid they will be overthrown because they don’t have to wait for election day.”
Russia has not publicly commented on the remarks made during the Latvian television programme.
Sources: LA.LV, TV24
