conflictThursday, May 21, 20263 sources

Lukashenko Declares Belarus Will Not Enter Ukraine War but Will Align with Russia

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko announced that his country will not be drawn into the Ukraine war but will defend itself in alliance with Russia. The statement came amid heightened tensions in the region, with Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly seeking dialogue with Belarus. The declaration underscores Belarus's strategic alignment with Russia while maintaining a stance of non-involvement in direct military action.

Lukashenko, speaking on May 21, 2026, stated that Belarus will not be dragged into the conflict with Ukraine, emphasizing the country's neutrality. He further indicated that Belarus will defend itself in coordination with Russia, a position that aligns with Moscow's military and political interests. The statement was reported by multiple outlets, including The Straits Times, Reuters, and Ukrinform, all of which cited Lukashenko's remarks directly.

Timelines

Sources

IndependentStraits TimesMay 22, 12:24 AM
Lukashenko says Belarus will not be dragged into Ukraine war, but will defend itself with Russia - The Straits Times

Lukashenko says Belarus will not be dragged into Ukraine war, but will defend itself with Russia  The Straits Times

WireReutersMay 22, 12:24 AM
Lukashenko says Belarus will not be dragged into Ukraine war, but will defend itself with Russia - Reuters

Lukashenko says Belarus will not be dragged into Ukraine war, but will defend itself with Russia  Reuters

StateUkrinformMay 21, 07:39 PM
Lukashenko says Belarus not planning to enter war, ready to meet Zelensky - Ukrinform - Ukrainian National News Agency

Lukashenko says Belarus not planning to enter war, ready to meet Zelensky  Ukrinform - Ukrainian National News Agency