'Talk to Lukashenka or face Putin,' freed Belarus activist warns EU

Maria Kalesnikava, freed after about 5.5 years in prison, warned the EU that it must engage with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenka or risk increased Russian (Putin) control over Belarus. She said Belarus is becoming more dependent on Russia, raising geopolitical and policy risks for the EU that could complicate sanctions, energy security, and regional stability.

Analysis

Maria Kalesnikava, freed after about 5.5 years in prison, warned the EU that it must engage with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenka or risk increased Russian (Putin) control over Belarus. She said Belarus is becoming more dependent on Russia, raising geopolitical and policy risks for the EU that could complicate sanctions, energy security, and regional stability.