Zelenskyy Claims Lukashenko Apologized for Belarus’ Role in Ukraine War, Spokesperson Denies

Ukrainian President Claims Belarusian Leader Apologized for Role in Russian Invasion

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a startling claim that Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko apologized for Belarus’ involvement in the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The alleged apology reportedly took place during a phone conversation between the two leaders in early 2022, shortly after the onset of the conflict.

According to Zelenskyy, he was awakened by missile strikes at the beginning of the invasion. In a subsequent call with Lukashenko, the Belarusian leader allegedly expressed regret and claimed he was not in control of the situation. Zelenskyy recounts that Lukashenko apologized and attributed the missile launches to Russian President Vladimir Putin. In a surprising twist, Lukashenko reportedly suggested that Ukraine retaliate by striking a Belarusian oil refinery.

However, Lukashenko’s spokesperson, Natalia Eismont, has vehemently denied these claims. While confirming that a call did take place, Eismont stated that there was “nothing to apologize for” and instead asserted that Lukashenko criticized Zelenskyy during the conversation, blaming his policies for the conflict. The call was reportedly facilitated by Lukashenko’s youngest son, who had access to Zelenskyy’s contact information.

This alleged exchange highlights the complex relationship between Belarus and Russia. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, Belarus has maintained strong ties with Russia, with Lukashenko serving as a long-time ally of Putin. In early 2022, Belarus hosted Russian troops and military equipment, which were subsequently used in the invasion of Ukraine.

Belarus’ economic reliance on Russia further complicates the situation. The country serves as a crucial transit route for Russian energy to Europe and depends heavily on trade with Moscow. Estimates suggest that over 60% of Belarus’ economy is tied to Russian trade, a dependency that has only increased following Western sanctions that impacted Belarus’ trade with the European Union.

As of now, Lukashenko’s press service has not provided any additional comments on the matter when contacted by Business Insider. The conflicting accounts of the phone call between Zelenskyy and Lukashenko underscore the ongoing tensions and complexities surrounding the conflict in Ukraine and the role of neighboring countries.