Belarus ready to welcome more Ukrainians, president says

Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko has expressed readiness to welcome more Ukrainians displaced by the ongoing war, calling them “a blessing” for his country. Speaking at the inauguration of a renovated bridge over the Pripyat River in Mozyr, Lukashenko praised Ukrainians as hardworking and close in spirit to Belarusians.

The Belarusian leader noted that Ukraine’s proximity initially made him hesitant to attend the event, Caliber.Az reports, citing Belarus media.

“I thought that, with the war in Ukraine going on, it would be somehow inappropriate for us to celebrate and for the president to come here… It is clear how it might be perceived,” Lukashenko said. “But I think Ukrainians will forgive me. After all, we are connecting the river banks for them, too.”

Reiterating Belarus’ willingness to assist, Lukashenko extended an open invitation to Ukrainians seeking refuge. “We are open. Please, come, Ukrainians. We will be happy to welcome you. We will provide your families and your children with the same quality of life as Belarusians have in terms of education and healthcare,” he said.

The president highlighted that many displaced Ukrainians have already integrated into Belarusian society and are working, particularly in Gomel Oblast. “We are ready to welcome them. For us, Ukrainians are a blessing. They are very hard-working people who understand us and speak the same language,” Lukashenko stated.

Reflecting on the ongoing conflict, he added, “Yet, trouble has come to our neighbor’s home. I believe we will resolve this issue.”

Lukashenko’s remarks come amid continuing regional instability caused by the Russia-Ukraine war, with Belarus maintaining close political ties to Moscow while hosting thousands of Ukrainian refugees.

By Vafa Guliyeva