Lukashenko reignites hope for peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in autumn

In a current press convention with international and Belarusian media, President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus expressed optimism for a possible shift within the Russia–Ukraine struggle by autumn, with the potential of peace negotiations commencing.

The Belarusian President additionally underscored the importance of seizing the opportune second for dialogue, whatever the alternative of venue, be it Moscow or Minsk.

He stated: “By autumn, the state of affairs ought to change, and we’ll begin speaking on the negotiating desk. Perhaps. Maybe not in September, a little bit later.

“I don’t want to give out any information, but the Europeans are already talking about this. France, Germany. most of all Europeans. And the beneficiary is actually one country.

“The major factor is to cease this battle.

“Powerful sturdy Russia, let it not shock anybody, is prepared for negotiations with Ukraine. Well, I don’t need folks to die. And if tomorrow the Russians grind these forces and see the chance to assault within the south of Transnistria, what then?

“Will Russia sit down at the negotiating table? Unlikely. The situation will change and the approaches will be different. Therefore, if someone is waiting for this ‘counterattack’…

“If it doesn’t work out, then we’ll sit down on the negotiating desk and Russia can ship in Russian and really far.

“Therefore, you need to take advantage of the moment. Because the dynamics are frantic. The development of the situation is instantaneous at times, and this must be used.”

Asked about Ukrainian territories annexed to Russia, he added: “Will Russia talk about Crimea and Novorossiya? Never! The state of affairs has modified.

“And then (during the previous rounds of negotiations) it was still possible. And tomorrow, maybe, no one will need negotiations at all. Zelensky is sitting and drawing, laying out something – this is only for themselves. Because the situation will change. Therefore, what was then, I think, 50 percent now is unacceptable.

“But the Russians is not going to insist. I do know Putin’s place. He will go to debate any points. But let’s sit down on the negotiating desk. Without preconditions.”