Lukashenko addresses the Belarusian people and the National Assembly with a Message. Key theses and statements

New dividing lines are emerging, and the "iron curtain" is descending again. No one wants to experience the consequences of insane and useless sanction wars. And this is the main point. Peoples do not understand how the ideology of a global international sustainable development project can be compatible with such "achievements" of modernity as unprecedented hunger, epidemics, moral degradation, and the rampant spread of abnormal values. This has never happened before in world history!


The President of Belarus is convinced that the main foreign policy trend after the coup d'état in Ukraine was joining NATO and proposals for the North Atlantic bloc to deploy its military bases in Ukraine.


Understanding the looming threat of war, the leadership of the Russian Federation demanded security guarantees from the sponsors of Ukraine's transformation into an anti-Russia. The Belarusian leader recounted the West's reaction:

– I will be frank today. Recently, I have had to discuss this issue very often with certain influential circles in the West. They, as before, say: "Well, that was not serious, what did Putin offer. It was not a serious proposal, we simply could not accept it." I interrupt them and say: "Guys, if it was not a serious proposal and meant nothing (after all, Putin asked for written guarantees), then why didn't you write him those guarantees? At the right moment, you would have spat on these guarantees as usual. But when war loomed, why didn't you provide at least these guarantees on paper?" Silence.

The President emphasized that the principles of social justice in the world are currently violated:

– Humanity is being smoothly led to a so-called new world, in which there will be billions of "superfluous" people – disenfranchised, hungry, destitute, but supposedly free in the most diverse liberal manifestations. Which ones – you know. People feel this and take to the streets. Look at what is happening in the West, in France itself.

. Such states as Belarus are not just a nuisance. We are a threat to this project. Because we are going our own way. This way, trying to support our people, our working people. Besides, the Belarusian leader drew attention to an important problem: the peoples of Europe are being drawn into a conflict with Russia, into confrontation with China:

– Today, the peoples of Europe are drawn into a reckless arms race, plunged into economic stagnation and moral depression. They are being drawn into conflict with Russia, into confrontation with China. And look: they are even afraid to stir! Do you think they wanted to supply their "Leopards" there (to Ukraine. – Ed.). Especially the Germans, who were forced to produce more of them and supply them there. Did they want to? No! But they are taking everything there. They were told from the regional committee in Washington – and they took it. What discipline!

Belarus and Russia

The head of state noted that the developing situation around the country has become the reason for the intensification of negotiations with the President of Russia Vladimir Putin on the return of nuclear weapons to Belarus, which were withdrawn in the 90s.

– Specifically on the return of nuclear weapons. Then, under guarantees. No sanctions against those who withdrew them, no pressure, no planning of offensives and revolutions. Everything has been trampled, everything has been violated. I have the right to raise the issue and return the nuclear weapons, which were then, even before me, signed by madmen, with obligations to return them. I remember I was pressured. I suspended this withdrawal. I did not withdraw the weapons in 1994 and 1995 and was subjected to the harshest pressure not only from the West but also from the President of Russia. I said: "No, I will not withdraw." I remember it like it was yesterday. He replied to me: "No, but you understand: they will crush you, destroy you. Yes"and you will not be able to service strategic warheads”.

Ukrainian conflict

Speaking about the Ukrainian crisis, the President emphasized that it is necessary to stop before the conflict escalates:

– I will try to risk proposing to stop the hostilities.

– Yes, many now, especially in Russia, will say: we have already stopped, back in Donbas. Taking into account those conditions, to stop hostilities, to declare a truce without the right to move troops from both sides, without the right to transfer weapons and ammunition, manpower and equipment. That's it, dead, frozen! And if the West once again tries to use the pause in hostilities to strengthen its positions by deception, Russia must use the full power of the military-industrial complex and the army to prevent the escalation of the conflict: both phosphorus munitions, and depleted uranium, and enriched uranium. Everything must be put to use if there is deception again and even the slightest movement across the border from one side or the other, preparation for an attack, is noticed. The military will understand me. All territorial, restoration, security and other issues must and can be resolved at the negotiating table without preliminary conditions. It's ridiculous, diplomats understand: when you go to negotiations, what conditions can there be?


Alexander Lukashenko drew attention to the fact that today is a unique, special moment that will not occur in the history of Russia, Belarus and Ukraine, nor in world history, especially European history.

– There is only one question: what to do? You all understand and know: there is only one way – negotiations. Negotiations without preliminary conditions. Well, what kind of miracles are these? The president of a sovereign independent country (Volodymyr Zelenskyy. – Ed.) signs a decree that concerns him specifically, andprohibits itself from negotiating peace. It's simply ridiculous, I tell you, as President. If you don't want to negotiate, then don't, why sign this decree and make a fool of yourself. What are you trying to demonstrate with this?

Alexander Lukashenko stated that, no matter what is being discussed, whatever processes are being analyzed nowadays, we constantly come up against the issue of the Ukrainian conflict:
 
– Let's also touch upon it, at least in general terms. At the same time, I want to note: in this format, I do not want to delve deeply into the events of the Ukrainian crisis. Although I was at the epicenter of this crisis, I, like no one else, was immersed in what was happening in Ukraine, and now I haven't "gotten out" of it. I am there – perhaps even more so than some of those who should be immersed in the causes of the development and consequences of this conflict. Therefore – purely schematically.

The President of Belarus recalled that the previously expressed proposals for peace were rejected by the leadership of Ukraine.

– I often said that I, like a little dog, ran from one president to another and conveyed different messages. It was very important for me to stop this war… And when nothing worked out, I took a risk and suggested: okay, since this happened between close brothers, let's then stand between you and introduce border troops to that 450-kilometer border, which the Ukrainians demanded to be immediately handed over to Ukraine's control. But even this was not accepted by the then leaders of Ukraine. And when negotiations became a fait accompli, remember, here in Minsk, as it has become known now, it was not negotiations – it was a cover-up! The time gained was used by the West for the militarization of Ukraine and the armament of its army.

The Head of State shared

– I will say more: no one should hide this. On both sides, the military and people at the front do not understand what they are fighting for and what they have to die for tomorrow. We survived that war, we understood that we were defending our land, the fascists killed not only soldiers – they burned everything indiscriminately. It was a different war. Then one side understood that it would win. Today, both sides understand that victory cannot be achieved. Ukrainians believe they will win – that's foolishness! You cannot defeat a nuclear power. If the Russian leadership realizes that the situation threatens the collapse of Russia, the most terrible weapon will be used. This cannot be allowed. But it is also dangerous that people who do not understand what they are fighting for will reach an agreement on the contact line.

The Belarusian leader spoke about the worst-case scenario for the development of events in Ukraine:

– Now, as you hear, there is a lot of talk about the counteroffensive of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. In my opinion, this is extremely dangerous. This is the worst that is possible in the current conditions. Because it can cross out all hopes for the negotiation process and lead to an irreversible escalation of the conflict. Do you understand what will happen? To count on victory with a state possessing nuclear weapons is madness. What for us? The war is not somewhere far away in Afghanistan, Syria, Libya, it is already with us, behind our fence – an acute conflict. Inside – you see what is happening. What I warned you about in 2020 is happening. They tried everything then and came to the only military option to break us. This is what is happening. A pretext will always be found.

Constitution and Statehood

Lukashenko also called it the most important achievement in the history of Belarusian statehood. He recalled that last year, the political majority established a number of new strategic directions at the constitutional level. Moreover, we preserved the continuity of political traditions.

– This is the most important achievement in the history of our statehood, – the President is confident. – I am extremely grateful to all of you who joined the discussion of the new version of the Basic Law, who took part in the 2022 referendum. These are millions. Our history has never known such unanimity. Tens of thousands of proposals were considered, all constructive ideas were analyzed and reflected, if not in the Constitution, then in other regulatory legal acts.

The President noted that there has never been an easy election campaign in the history of Belarus and there will not be one as long as it exists as a sovereign state. According to the Belarusian leader, even today, without waiting for the electoral campaign, it is necessary to discuss with people which issues will be submitted to the first constitutional convocation of the All-Belarusian People's Congress.

– We need to start discussing the draft of the new Concept of National Security – just as we did with the draft Constitution, – Alexander Lukashenko added. – At the moment, this sounds very acute. We need to go to the people and explain ourselves. And in general, the dialogue with people, which began on the eve of the constitutional referendum, should be continued at the local level, in student auditoriums, at factories, in organizations. It is not time to stop. We should not think that we have explained everything to everyone.

Addressing those gathered in the Palace of the Republic hall, Alexander Lukashenko emphasized:

– My children will not be presidents! You must remember this and also not "chew it over," not talk about itthis topic. But together with you, as long as we are alive, we will not give up our achievements! And if we don't give them up, it means we will live, and if we live, our children will live!

Confrontation with the West

Alexander Lukashenko also spoke about what the West was plotting against Belarus. According to him, ill-wishers are preparing and sending terrorists to our country to carry out sabotage and acts of intimidation. They are trying to create underground extremist cells to coordinate protest activities, and are transferring weapons and financial resources.

– Do you think this is all for nothing? They have specific plans, and they don't hesitate to talk about them openly. I will give specific examples. A quote from the Inspector General of the German Armed Forces, Colonel-General Zorn, at the end of last year: "Belarus may enter the war," he continued. – In this case, NATO member states should begin covert operations on its territory. NATO should prepare to support political changes in Eastern Europe with military means. Such changes could be a democratic revolution and a popular uprising in Belarus." See? We haven't joined anything yet, and they've already started. They want political changes, but with a rifle in hand. To come to us and implement these political changes.

According to the President, one must see very subtly what is happening in the world in general, and especially in the West. Moreover, destructive processes will only worsen. Responding to accusations from Ukraine like "you've fallen under Putin," the Belarusian leader stated:

– I haven't fallen under anyone, we are not quite... They (the Ukrainian leadership. – Ed.) have forgotten who first imposed sanctions against Belarus? Who banned flights over their territory? Who asked you to run ahead of the locomotive? And now you are asking me for some kind of loyalty, demanding that I start fighting against Putin, against Russia? You are vile people, you don't understand our mentality – those in power in Ukraine. Therefore, the Ukrainian people are suffering, and we are not having an easy time.


The Head of State stated that they are trying to drag Belarus into the war, and our Western neighbors are particularly diligent. The President cited specific facts:

– For military needs in 2023, Poland plans to allocate about 21 billion euros, or approximately 3 percent of GDP – 70 percent more than in 2022. Even the Americans did not allow themselves such growth. By 2024, this figure could grow to 28 billion euros, more than 4 percent of GDP. This is twice what NATO required. Why? Who threatens Poland?

Sovereignty and Independence

Only the citizens of Belarus, as the President emphasized, have the right to speak about their national interests and determine the national ideas for further development. The Belarusian leader named the first condition for sovereignty and independence – it is popular unity:

– We, Belarusians, have always demonstrated it at critical moments in history. It was unity that gave us the strength to overcome enemies and circumstances. This was the case during the revolutionary upheavals when the Belarusian people did not miss the chance to lay the foundations of national statehood. This was the case in '39 of the last century when our historical lands were reunited, which would have been impossible without the desire of Belarusians to live in one family. This was the case during the Great Patriotic War when the occupiers faced truly nationwide resistance, unprecedented in world history. And who stood shoulder to shoulder with us then in the forests and swamps? Our Slavs, our Russian people. Hence the answer why we are with them today. In the difficult post-war period, in the turbulent 90s, during global crises and the pandemic, Belarusians have always been united in the face of tdifficulties and challenges. I heard you, you heard me. Together we withstood the onslaught of liberal models, pulling the country out of ruin, out of the abyss," the President stated. "We have preserved the continuity of historical epochs and traditions. And we made all strategic decisions ourselves. No matter how they accuse us of being controlled by someone. Ourselves! We made (decisions. – Ed. note) by an overwhelming majority of votes in referendums, in elections, supporting the political course of the country, which we have been following for almost three decades."
The Head of State mentioned important conditions for preserving sovereignty and independence – historical memory and our national traditions. He explained:

"We, Belarusians, are a people with a rich thousand-year history, in which the eras of flourishing and decline of many states created on our lands are intertwined. The origins of Belarusian statehood are the foundation of our sovereignty. For almost a third of a century, the topic of the origins of statehood has caused heated discussions and sharp disputes in the academic environment and society. The "sviadomyja" are particularly worried: they sit abroad and are always looking for non-Slavic origins of Belarusians. And under the foreign leadership of Western curators. History for them is a weapon, they say so themselves. Therefore, time itself has forced us to take a tougher state position on the issues of preserving historical truth, to give a principled, uncompromising assessment of certain facts."

The Head of State told what the joint response of Belarus, Russia, China and Iran to the US pressure attempts will be:

"The US attempts to maintain world dominance are focused on the economic strangulation of Russia, designated in the American strategy as the source"a period of failures and instability" on a global scale, the President of Belarus explained. "They are brewing confrontation with China, which Washington considers the most serious geopolitical challenge. Iran has long been enemy number one for the US in the region. And are other countries of the East and South delighted with the world order according to Western templates? No. Everyone sees that this is a continuation of the same colonial policy, only at a new stage of its development. If a country has independence in managing its resources, national sovereignty in determining its foreign and domestic policy, then this is already a reason for sanctions, and sometimes for military intervention."

Economy and country development

Speaking about the fact that Belarus has established trade relations with almost all countries of the world, the President outlined an unconditional priority for our transport industry: "New logistics routes have been found, agreements with Russia in the transport sector, in road, air, and rail transport have come into force, and today 20 Russian seaports are already involved. But this is not enough. The creation of our own port infrastructure and new land routes towards China, Iran and other Asian countries should become an unconditional priority for our transport industry. All these tasks are not only a matter of Belarus's material well-being. We will continue to feed ourselves, clothe ourselves, provide ourselves with housing and other benefits of civilization – we will decide for ourselves how to live." The President named the direction in which it is necessary to work so that our people do not leave the regions for the capital: "We have been talking for a long time and extensively about de-urbanization, about creating comfortable living conditions in rural areas. Who would want to leave the agro-

in a town, a district center, if we create jobs with a salary not lower than the average for the region or industry, and provide people with housing and the necessary infrastructure? No one will leave such a place. People need work where they live. And the implementation of the principle "one district – one project" in the current five-year plan is intended to promote job creation and employment.

Alexander Lukashenko stated that the most important condition for sovereignty and independence is the economy:

– It could have been said more simply, expressed more concisely: give me the economy – I will do everything else without you. For three decades now, the foundation of Belarus's state policy has been a socially oriented economy. This policy is successful, and the people support it. According to all indicators characterizing social inequality, Belarus is among the most prosperous countries. We have created a state without oligarchs, without allowing

or concentration of capital and property in one pair of hands, all national wealth belongs to the people. Therefore, it is the economy that ensures the social security of citizens that is the main target of the West. The issue is not in the difference of mentalities, not in the differences of political systems of the West and the East. Everything is much simpler and more primitive: neither sovereign Belarus nor sovereign Russia with a strong economy are needed by anyone.

The President noted that every corner of our homeland has its own unique cultural and natural flavor, but the economic development of all regions must be fair and balanced – this is a priority of the regional development program.


The Head of State saidat-svoy-produkt-v-tom-chisle-prod.html" target="_blank">stated that now is the most opportune time to produce products, including jointly with Russia:

– It's time to finally get rid of foreign bolts and nuts and produce our own product. Including the product of the Union State. Just think: the market for automotive components for transport engineering, imported into Belarus and Russia in 2021 alone, amounted to 19 billion dollars. And this is our competence, we have a corresponding plant. We can expand this. Why are we doing this slowly?

Alexander Lukashenko also touched upon the issue of IT development in Belarus. He noted that the large-scale digitalization, which the Government has been talking about for years, is still stalling:

– The status of an IT country implies the creation of products for the needs of its own economy in the first place. Preferences were given for this. The return is not very visible yet. You remember the difficulties we faced when technological sanctions were imposed against us. We saw how dependent we are on foreign software and what risks this entails. And imagine what failures in software at large chemical enterprises or, for example, at a nuclear power plant (which they would like abroad) could lead to, and what problems we would have with financial settlements. Therefore, the creation and implementation of domestic software must become an unconditional priority for all organizations involved in relevant developments.


Alexander Lukashenko recalled that Belarus fully ensures its food security. He added that there were difficulties, but sovereignty would have to be paid for.

– Did we pay a lot? Did we lose anything? We haven't even started paying yet. For the most part, everything is still warm and cozy in homes, there are products on the shelves in stores, even for the most sophisticated gourmets., children attend schools and universities. Order and safety on the streets. And yet, this can be lost in an instant. And we also see how this happens, – said the President.

The head of the Belarusian state stated that Belarus's upcoming accession to the SCO as a full member opens up new prospects:

– This organization is today one of the largest regional associations in the world. With it, we will become stronger ourselves and make it stronger, providing additional opportunities for cooperation in many areas, including industrial cooperation and logistics. And we will continue the Silk Road.

Health of the Nation and Family Values

During his speech, the President also called for special attention to be paid to young Belarusians. The most comfortable conditions must be created for them.

– Children's health is also a matter of demographic security, without which there is no point in thinking about tomorrow. For whom are we building Belarus, a cozy and comfortable home? Our generation has preserved this "cared-for corner," having received it from the hands of our parents. But who will live here tomorrow? Who will preserve the native language, the memory of our heroic history, who will take care of the graves of our ancestors, "protect the heritage"? Will children's laughter be heard in the mansions that many have built during the so-called dictatorship? To stand firmly on our land, there must be significantly more of us Belarusians – this is the most important condition for sovereignty. And the state is doing a lot to ensure the conditions. Large-scale support is provided to families raising children. Future mothers are surrounded by care. The healthcare system takes patronage of children even before their birth, the education system creates a system for childcare from an early age: nursery groups, kindergartens. The mother's job is preserved, thusгосударство помогает обеспечить баланс семьи и карьеры. Для многодетных – особые условия: жилье, семейный капитал, бесплатное питание в саду и школе и многое другое. Вот говорю это, и мозг сверлит одна проблема: мы обеспечиваем многодетных, а ведь есть тысячи фактов, когда деньги отдаем, а они родителями пропиваются. Вы знаете, что многодетные семьи – это не всегда шоколад. Чего бы нам ни стоило, Правительству и губернаторам решить проблему. Я перед вами поставил этот вопрос. Если вы видите, что семья пропивает эти средства и до детей они не доходят, примите решение и обеспечьте детей! 


Александр Лукашенко также поднял тему воспитания детей и семейной пропаганды. Он уверен, что культ полноценной семьи должен быть стилем жизни белорусов. 

– Только так мы сможем быть уверены, что следующие за нами поколения будут прирастать. А значит – крепко держать суверенитет в своих руках и гарантированно жить в мире, – добавил он. 

Президент раскритиковал существующую систему выплат пособий за рождение детей и заверил, что даст указание Правительству и губернаторам изучить этот вопрос. 


Александр Лукашенко заявил, что в стране созданы и обеспечены всем необходимым межрайонные центры, в которых диагностика и лечение проводятся не хуже, чем в столичных клиниках, внедряются новации.

– Никакие санкции не смогут и не должны повлиять на уровень нашего медицинского обслуживания. Поэтому на особом контроле производство белорусских лекарственных препаратов. Их долю необходимо постоянно повышать, ассортимент – расширять. Такие же требования к отечественным технологическим инновациям и об ```html

The state helps to ensure a balance between family and career. For large families, there are special conditions: housing, family capital, free meals in kindergarten and school, and much more. As I say this, one problem gnaws at my mind: we are providing for large families, but there are thousands of cases where we give money, and the parents drink it away. Do you know that large families are not always a bed of roses. Whatever it takes, the Government and governors must solve the problem. I have set this question before you. If you see that a family is drinking away these funds and they are not reaching the children, make a decision and provide for the children!

Alexander Lukashenko also raised the issue of child-rearing and family propaganda. He is confident that the cult of a complete family should be a way of life for Belarusians.

– Only in this way can we be sure that the generations that follow us will grow. And therefore, they will firmly hold sovereignty in their hands and live in peace, – he added.

The President criticized the existing system of childbearing benefits and assured that he would instruct the Government and governors to study this issue.

Alexander Lukashenko stated that inter-district centers have been created and equipped with everything necessary in the country, where diagnostics and treatment are carried out no worse than in metropolitan clinics, and innovations are being introduced.

– No sanctions can and should affect the level of our medical care. Therefore, the production of Belarusian medicinal products is under special control. Their share must be constantly increased, and the range – expanded. The same requirements apply to domestic technological innovations and ob ```орудованию, – emphasized the Head of State.

– We are "seven I" – six regions and the capital, this is our slogan, – stated the President. – We cannot pull all resources to Minsk, to ultimately allow hyper-centralization. We cannot blindly play with so-called optimization, concentrating labor force and competencies exclusively in regional centers and the capital at the expense of reducing the regional network.

The President emphasized that Belarus advocates for the preservation of traditional family values.

– Let's be honest: the state should not buy children from parents. It can help raise future citizens, protect them, provide social guarantees and opportunities for development.

The Head of State said that Belarus has created all conditions for a woman to realize herself as a mother and as a professional. The President also noted that the role of the father in raising children should not be overshadowed. Father's Day, which was announced in the country last year, is intended to emphasize that the head of the family plays an important role not only in providing income for the family. A strong shoulder is necessary for the full upbringing of a child.

– Therefore, mass media, film production, cultural projects should work for the idea of reviving the traditions of a large, complete, classic family, – Alexander Lukashenko emphasized.

Openness to Dialogue

Alexander Lukashenko reported that Belarus is open to dialogue with the West. But our position is unwavering – to cooperate only with those who respect the Belarusian people, only on the condition of observing national interests.of Belarus.

– It is not we who are closing the doors in our relations, it is not we who are escalating the overwhelming degree of political tension, it is not we who are rattling weapons at the borders. We are open to any dialogue. You are our neighbors, Europeans. We are ready to cooperate with you and do everything that is possible in the current conditions. You are welcome. But we have always advocated for strengthening confidence-building measures and security in the region. That is why we put forward the "Helsinki-2" initiative at one time. We have always been and remain consistent partners in preventing cross-border threats and enhancing mutual trust. It was we who did everything possible to stop the hostilities in Ukraine and establish peace, which is so necessary for our brothers, the Ukrainians and Russians.

The President emphasized that over all the years of independence, Belarus has not found itself in such a disturbing and threatening situation for its security as it is today.
 
– A campaign to extort money by fraudsters, to draw our youth into illegal activities and extremism, has been launched within the country, – Alexander Lukashenko noted. – The special services of neighboring states are behind all these facts. Our foreign policy response to this entire bacchanalia is the accelerated development of relations with our allies. The so-called pivot to the East in our policy is the most reasonable reality dictated by the spirit of the times. After all, as we know, the sun sets in the west and rises in the east.

The President noted that Belarusians are happy to welcome everyone into their national family who shares our spiritual and moral principles.  

– Of course, we are happy to welcome into our national family everyone who shares our spiritual and moral principles, who, like us, is concerned about the future, who wants to raise their children on traditional values. Thousands of foreigners find a new home and a new homeland on Belarusian soil. Some are hiding from the war with their families. Others are seeking social stability and security. Some are fleeing the vices of Western civilization. Like pправило, these are people with competencies, educated, intelligent, with golden hands. They want to develop, learn, create. We should think about creating certain conditions for them that would stimulate such people to move to us, including those who want to move their business here. All these mechanisms must work. We should not be shy. For our former compatriots, natives of our Soviet homeland (I'm not talking about fugitives now, although we have resolved the issue with them too), it is time for them to return to their roots. The degree of Russophobia in the West is such that one must seriously think about the safety of one's life and the lives of one's children. It will not be easier.

Defense capability and security

The President of Belarus called defense capability of the state an important condition for sovereignty and independence. Alexander Lukashenko elaborated on this while addressing the Belarusian people and Parliament.

– No one needs to be explained why a state needs a strong army, equipped with the latest technology, why it needs to develop its own military industry, how important it is not to depend on anyone in this matter... The more we want to live in a peaceful sovereign state, the stronger we must be. This is an axiom. For those who haven't understood, I'll repeat again: Belarus is a peace-loving country, we do not plan to attack anyone, we do not want to fight with anyone. We don't want to! We haven't buried the last soldier and civilian we lost during the Great Patriotic War. We wholeheartedly want that war to be the last in the history of our land, soaked in blood and tears. We've had enough pain! But life forces us to keep our powder dry, because we know the true face of so-called Western diplomacy. No one has ever thought or thinks about peace or the desire to find a compromise there. We learned this lesson even earlier, when our security guarantees from the West under the Budapest Memorandum evaporated along with the withdrawal of the last nuclear missile from our territory. Henceforth, we will proceed from the fact that Western promises

x politicians, even those sealed with high-level signatures, are worthless. There is no longer any trust in them, and not just on our part. This is about a global loss of trust between states.

The President reported that he had ordered the military to restore the sites where "Topol" nuclear warheads were deployed. The head of state also spoke about the military equipment in service:

– Belarusian missile troops have mastered the domestic "Polonez" complex, which is in colossal demand. I want the public to know: the Belarusian "Polonez" is not inferior to the American HIMARS, which the Ukrainians are currently fighting with. And in many respects, it even surpasses it. Our army has received an even more powerful "Iskander" missile system. This weapon has no equal in the world.

Lukashenko admitted that the case with the Grodno terrorist is not the last attempt to create a casus belli (a pretext for war) in Belarus. Attempts to destabilize Belarus militarily or through terrorist attacks will lead to nothing:

– We are well aware that this is not the last attempt to create a casus belli (a pretext for war) here, to provoke and drag us into who knows where. But let them also thoroughly calculate their own risks. Regarding Grodno, you noticed: we take no prisoners. If resistance is offered, then to the Lord God, forgive me, this was my order. Moreover, the most stringent requirement for the security forces: God forbid that even a single serviceman dies during such operations. God forbid!

Raising a New Generation

Lukashenko also pointed out the importance of the educational element in education:

– They come to us (inforeigners – Ed. note) including due to knowledge. Today, Belarus is an educational hub of Eastern Europe, where all conditions are created for obtaining fundamental and applied education in the widest range of specialties. However, first and foremost, domestic education must meet the demands of the Belarusian economy. And this is a two-way street. Who, if not the management of enterprises, knows what kind of personnel the industry needs? And let's remember that the entire education system must be future-oriented: to form a new type of worker – literate, flexible, proactive, ready to live and work in an open information society. This applies to all specialties – from combine operators and builders to doctors," said the President. "The second and most important thing is that in kindergartens, schools, secondary vocational and higher education institutions, the spiritual and moral image of the nation is formed. Colossal responsibility lies on the shoulders of educators, school teachers, university professors – preserving the continuity of our traditional values. The main thing in them is love for their country. And I will say again, because it is relevant: only a patriot can raise a patriot. We have a colossal omission here. As I said about healthcare, I want to say about education: we need to shake up our corps of rectors. You saw the year '20: they quietly sat it out, as if they had nothing to do with it. No, no, I don't want to cast a shadow on everyone. But there are some who have stopped not just running – they have stopped walking. Pay attention to this.

Answers to questions

The head of state also spoke on the topic of tactical nuclear weapons. Answering a question from the chairman of the Svisloch District Executive Committee, Alexander Versotsky, about the reaction of fugitives and the West to the deployment of nuclear weapons.Regarding the deployment of tactical nuclear weapons on the territory of Belarus and what could serve as a trigger for their use, the President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko said the following:

– We will not proactively cross the border of Belarus. Never. We have enough of our own land. I just spoke about demographic security. God grant us twice as many people in this territory as there are now. Therefore, we are not going to attack anyone. But we will not allow the boot of a foreign soldier or a foreigner, unfriendly to us, to cross our border. We will react adequately.


The President of Belarus spoke about his attitude towards the Anglo-Saxons and about the fact that many in Europe have already sobered up:

– The time has not come yet. But you will see that the Anglo-Saxons are different. Even at the highest level. Even those who, one way or another, organize terrorist acts and various kinds of events against us. They are all different. Therefore, we will not repeat their mistakes and generalize. But the fact that certain things and events must be called by their names – this is definitely necessary. I agree with you. I think that the Government, and the governors, and the new Minister of Education will hear this. As for "bristling," jungles… You know, wise people enter the jungle with caution. Therefore, I warn them: be more careful with our jungles.

Alexander Lukashenko explained why the Russian army – the second strongest in the world – cannot yet cope with the Ukrainian one:

– Initially, Russia had a certain imbalance in armaments. They paid more attention to promising developments. They were the first in the world to create hypersonic weapons, they have the newest strategic weapon systems – Yars, Sarmat. This is huge money. But at the same time, much less attention was paid toartillery: "Grad," "Uragan," "Tornado." And there wasn't enough money, as it was spent on promising developments. Allegedly, the future war is not on the ground, but somewhere in space. But the Ukrainian experience showed that it is impossible to win without grenade launchers, machine guns, assault rifles, without the most elementary things. It is impossible to win without "Grad," "Tornado," "Uragan." We have all this weaponry," the Belarusian leader stated.


The President also pointed out the decent level of work of the Belarusian special services and added that their professionalism is admired in other countries:

"You saw how quickly the system reacted to the provocation in Machulishchi. That's your dictatorship for you. They acted so well that even all foreign special services admire it. We received these signals with admiration... But know this, we will continue to work like this, including against you. It was a brilliant operation. It will be in the textbooks. We quickly found this saboteur and everyone who helped him. Today, 30 scoundrels are in custody."

The Belarusian leader believes that it is indeed important to participate in changing this world now. Otherwise, it will be done without us:

"What it means to follow in the wake of others' interests is vividly shown by the Ukrainian issue. And can the policies of the United Nations, the OSCE, the International Monetary Fund, and a number of other international structures that have long served the interests of globalists be called independent? Thus, we arrive at a very important thought. When the world is changing, should we adapt to it, or should we participate in changing it? Should we be passive observers, swallowing foreign ideas, decisions alien to us, or act actively with our allies? Swallow ideas or act? Adapt or participate in change?"? This thesis was given to me by specialists, where everything is turned upside down and where – I read it specifically – nothing overlaps. What does it mean to "participate in changing the world or adapt"? My dears, do not suffer from globalism! Where necessary, one must adapt, there is no need to puff out one's cheeks. Russia is such a global country – and you see how they are trying to tear it apart and crush it. And we will puff out our cheeks and not adapt to anything? Where it is necessary for the country, one must adapt. But we must participate in changing this world! Otherwise, it will be done without us – and our interests will not be taken into account. In my opinion, this is a Belarusian answer to this question – only in this way, with our allies.


The President addressed the Belarusian people:

– We are building our policy not on conquering someone, absorb. Our military doctrine is earthly in its foundation. We must be ready to inflict unacceptable damage on aggressors. If they know that the response will be unacceptable to them, they will never set foot here. This is what I proceed from. We have everything for this. In addition, we are making the defense of our Motherland a nationwide cause. This is not just a slogan. We have already made significant progress in the development of territorial defense.

Lukashenko also emphasized that using the example of the work of the VNS, we must show the West the true democracy:

– The All-Belarusian People's Assembly is not a copy of the Parliament, not a duplicating body. The VNS should solve serious issues. It should not interfere with the work of existing authorities: neither the President, nor the Government, nor the governors, and so on.

The Head of State commented on the IOC's decision regarding the participation of Belarusian and Russian athletes in international competitions:
 
– We don't need this kind of sport. It's not sport anymore. It's a direction of politics, and not even politics – it's already a direction of war. You know who started it, why it's happening. When they got involved in Syria, Libya, when they interfered in Afghanistan, bombed Iraq… No one suspended them (the USA. – Ed. note). That is, today they already control everything. The IOC "crapped themselves," excuse me. They can no longer cope with these processes in the world…


Recalling the events of 2020, the President of Belarus noted:

– We stood firm in the 20th year by the majority. This is obvious even to those who managed that barbaric blitzkrieg. True, it's high time for them to publicly admit their defeat. As human beings.skis, meeting those Westerners in a friendly manner, I told them: "Guys, you lost. You lost, so admit that you lost, and let's start building our relationship somehow, the one that can be built today."

The Head of State gave the following instructions to the Republican Council for Historical Policy:

– It is necessary to develop unified approaches in the interpretation of epochal events. I will say more

specifically: people should know who our heroes are, and raise new generations of Belarusians on their examples. Khatyn, Ola, Borki, the Brest Fortress, and all the places of tragedy and feat of the Belarusian people, the peoples of the USSR, in a word, the victorious people, should become places of pilgrimage and reverence. First and foremost for our children.

Lukashenko emphasized that our aircraft factories produce almost 500 types of parts for Russian aircraft. He demanded to promote the products of Belarusian mechanical engineering in the Russian market even more actively:

— We plan to launch about 15 mechanical engineering projects with Russian partners, which will have an investment and cooperation effect. The issues of their financing have been resolved, but we are developing slowly. We will produce a wide range of products – from highly intelligent integrated microcircuits to quarry trucks and agricultural machinery.


Alexander Lukashenko stated that one of the most important tasks in the economy is to maintain the pace of development of engineering and transport infrastructure:

– The volumes of road construction, housing commissioning, and improvement of settlements are the key to comfortable living in the regions. We need to return to the large-scale construction of concrete highways. There will be the strictest accountability for this. I warned certain members of the Government. We purchased the most modern equipment before these sanctions. Concrete roads are our salvation in our weather conditions. This is durability. This is a task for the Government and local authorities.

The President of Belarus assured that the country has the resources to finance important infrastructure projects:

– This is a matter of our honor. Today, the entire Government is present in this hall, with whom we have discussed this issue more than once. To complete this work is a matter of honor. There is money for this, so these projects must be completed. If something goes wrong, if some projects are disrupted, report to me through Kochmanova (Natalia Kochanova, Chairperson of the Council of the Republic. – Ed.), I will sort it out. I gave my corresponding instructions on this matter, and the money has been allocated for it.
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The Head of State is confident that Belarus will not lose the information war. He acknowledged that our journalists and political scientists are now "on the cutting edge":

– You are doing great, you are fighting sincerely for your country. An acute phase of the information war is underway. This is no longer a confrontation, it is a war that has been unleashed, including against us. We have learned to fight, to contract. We cannot lose this war. If we lose the information war, it means we will plunge into a real war. In the near future, we will take measures to strengthen propaganda and agitation. We will promote the best, we will agitate for the best.


The President called import substitution and increasing the share of innovative production the most important task in the development of the country's economy:

– We must not depend on the whims of Western political elites who restrict the freedom of civilized business. This is a matter of national security. There is a wide field here for the implementation of the boldest ideas of Belarusian scientists. Look at those enterprises where this has been understood for a long time; we have export growth and saturation of our market with high-quality goods.

The Head of State explained what Belarusians need to do to preserve the independence of our state:

– When the President has to intervene and teach this and that, to rebrand some "McDonald's" as "McBay" or something else, my blood boils. You want to be sovereign and independent. How will you be sovereign and independent if you don't see what's happening under your feet? That's why I always say: do your job. Everyone should do their job at their own placeе, especially representatives of power, what you should do. And deputies, senators, I ask you, do not bend to the population. Where help is needed, help, demand. But where it is necessary to force that voter to do it, force them! This applies to trade unions and future party leaders.  

Alexander Lukashenko made a statement that Belarus does not intend to exchange Andrzej Poczobut, convicted in the country, for the lifting of restrictions at the checkpoints on the Belarusian-Polish border. At the same time, the Head of State named the conditions under which such an exchange could take place and offered his own options.

– I will say publicly: if they want to exchange Poczobut for something, well, in Poland there is "Lahushko"... However, Belarus will not make such an exchange "one-on-one". Only if the entire group that calls itself "NAU" and is located in Poland returns to the country. Tell them. We will resolve the issue by evening. I am not against it, – added the President. 


Characterizing the global geopolitical situation, the Head of State noted:
 
– Not everything is so simple. The US national security strategy adopted in October 2022 states that to achieve its strategic goals, efforts will be directed towards investing in sources and instruments of American power and influence, including the armed forces. Including for the purpose of "protecting human rights from Belarus to Xinjiang." Seriously? They are going to protect human rights from Belarus to Xinjiang – to China! While reports from the streets of Los Angeles, Detroit, Texas increasingly resemble front-line dispatches. Watch overseas TV channels: thousands of people are dying from uncontrolled weapons and rampant banditry, and often at the hands of the nacalled law enforcement officers, and under dubious circumstances. And no one is taking action! Both Trump and the current "sleepy Joe" can't do anything! But can't they really? They don't want to! Because they need to step on the tail of arms manufacturers. But how can they step on it, and where will the money come from? That's all their independence (I don't know from whom) and their human rights. If they wanted to, they would have done it.

Answering the question about the nuclear arsenal, the Head of State assured that there is no uncontrolled weapons in Belarus and cannot be:

"Everything will be according to the law and rules. There are no uncontrolled weapons in Belarus and there cannot be. Therefore, we will manage everything that is in Belarus."

The Head of State noted that there should be no propaganda of non-traditional relations in our society:

– This should not be in our society. I do not blame women in this regard. So, we overlooked something. So, we have not worked enough in something.


The President of Belarus also announced a meeting with his Russian counterpart before the meeting of the Supreme State Council of the Union State. Lukashenko added that Vladimir Putin proposed such an algorithm.

– It's similar to how he conducted negotiations with Xi Jinping. We will discuss some issues that are not subject to discussion at the Supreme State Council. And we will make an appropriate decision concerning the SSC, – emphasized the Head of State.

A representative of the student team movement appealed to the Head of State with a proposal to entrust the BRSM with the participation in the creation of the Republican Patriotic Center on bthe Kobrin fortification of the Brest Fortress and, following a good tradition, to declare this object an All-Belarusian Youth Construction Project.

Alexander Lukashenko said that he plans to study the issue of granting the patriotic center in Brest the status of an All-Belarusian Youth Construction Project.

"We will study this proposal of yours. Moreover, you are not strangers to me, you are dear people," the President said.


The President emphasized that Belarusians need to go through a difficult period without losing anything.

– I already feel from the first quarter that we have an opportunity, primarily in the economy, to improve. And we must improve. I beg you very much, – he addressed the Belarusians, – let's take care of our country. If we have an economy, then no missiles, armed terrorists, and so on will be scary for us. Give me this economy. It depends on you. I will solve everything else myself.

According to Alexander Lukashenko, Russia has everything to repel any counteroffensive in Ukraine:

"I can say today that there will be no success for the 'counteroffensive'. It is always more difficult to attack than to defend. And Russia has everything to repel any counteroffensive. Any. Why demand this from the Ukrainians? After all, how many innocent people will die," – he said.

The head of state commented on Merkel's statement about the Minsk agreements – you were positioned as a strong personalityas a strong personality:

– That's a lie! It was all serious. And back then, they didn't think they were buying time. It's now that Ukraine is fighting, it's confronting the second army in the world, the "aggressor," and so on... They weren't there in Minsk for that reason. It's unpopular now. And they wanted to show what heroes they were: they postponed this war for six or seven years and gave Ukraine the opportunity to arm itself. Beautiful? François Hollande is one thing. But Merkel... you were positioned to the whole world as a strong personality and so on. Why are you stooping so low? Why did you sign next to some vile people? But that's their business.


The President emphasized that all necessary measures for price regulation have been adopted in Belarus:

– Yes, they are tough. You know my principled approach: no one is allowed to unreasonably charge...raise prices and fleece people. That's the first thing. And the second is that Belarusians should not pay for empty dollars, as the whole world is doing today.

Lukashenko answered the question of who could mediate negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.

– From the contacts I have with influential people in the West, including in the USA, I understood that they are now very concernedto those who will benefit from peace negotiations. The Lord be with you! It doesn't matter who, as long as there is peace! No... "China will benefit from this." Why? "We figured that China has more right to be an influential mediator in this conflict."


The President also noticed that those who want to and can work, earn in Belarus:

– In our country, everyone who wants to and can work, works and earns. I repeat: whoever wants to, can work and earn here. These are very subtle nuances, I didn't want to talk about it, but, excuse me, I'll say it as the President. Not only should you "skin me alive", but I should also ask some questions to the people. Everyone demands that everyone be rich. That the salary should be 3 thousand rubles, like the best ones, and maybe even more.

Lukashenko also dwelt on the prospects for the development of the Belarusian electrical industry. He emphasized that thanks to the Belarusian NPP, gas consumption is being replaced in Belarus, and the opportunities for developing this sphere have expanded:

– The key component here is electric transport, but it is necessary to actively expand the production of electric traction motors, components for unmanned vehicles, and it is high time for our scientists to present a line of high-quality, inexpensive, competitive batteries. We will see in the near future.

"SB"