The world is witnessing a pivotal turning point in Belarus’s history.
Over the past week, historic demonstrations have taken place across the country protesting longtime president Alexander Lukashenko’s oppressive regime, rigged elections, and scenes of police brutality and torture against thousands detained during the protests. The demonstrations have continued to grow in size, leading to the worst crisis in the dictator’s 26-year reign and signalling the potential collapse of his authoritarian rule.
Seven days after Lukashenko claimed to have secured 80% of the vote in the presidential elections, tens of thousands of Belarusians gathered in Minsk to protest rigged elections and call for the downfall of the regime.