Lukashenko wins seventh straight presidential term in Belarus
Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko extends his 31-year rule after electoral officials declare him the winner of the presidential election. | Belarusian leader and close Russian ally Alexander Lukashenko extended his 31-year grip on power Monday after election officials declared him the winner of a presidential vote. ● According to initial results, Lukashenko secured 86.8% of the vote, facing no significant competition from the four other candidates on the ballot. ● German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock dismissed the results, saying, "The people of Belarus had no choice. It is a bitter day for all those who long for freedom & democracy." ● In turn, exiled opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya urged Western nations to expand sanctions against Belarusian companies and individuals involved in repressing Lukashenko’s opponents and aiding Russia in the Ukraine war.
■ Press review: Belarusian president re-elected while Denmark boosts aid to Ukraine (TASS)
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