While global attention has focused on Putin’s war of aggression in Ukraine and Hamas’ savage attack on Israel, other authoritarians go about their business with less notice. In Belarus, dictator Alyaksandr Lukashenka continues to stifle free speech, imprison opposition leaders, and use violence as a means of intimidation. Lukashenka and his regime are also complicit in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. The Belarusian dictator not only fosters a close relationship with Russian president Vladimir Putin but has also permitted the deployment of Russian troops and materiel on Belarusian soil, facilitated the stationing of Wagner troops in Belarus, and joined Russia in the forced deportation of Ukrainian children.

Against this bleak backdrop, the Belarusian democratic movement has continued to work toward a free, secure, and stable Belarus. Led by national leader of Belarus Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, opposition forces advocate for a Belarusian society built on freedom, rule of law, and sovereignty. It is crucial for the United States and its allies to support Belarusian democratic leadership while Lukashenka continues to threaten international security through repression at home and active support for Russia against Ukraine.