Russian Envoy: Moscow Will Help Lukashenka Quash 'Disorder' In 2025 Presidential Poll

Russian Ambassador to Belarus Boris Gryzlov said Moscow will provide assistance to Minsk -- which could include Russian boots on the ground -- if it is asked to help counter attempts to “destabilize” 2025 presidential elections. Speaking in an interview with Russian news agency RIA Novosti, Gryzlov said there was "no reason to believe that Belarusian law enforcement officers and special services will need additional help... 'on the ground.' But, if necessary, within the framework of its obligations, Russia will certainly provide assistance and support, if our closest ally and strategic partner asks for it." Gryzlov added that Russia and Belarus were already sharing intelligence on what they call "potential threats" leading up to this year's vote. The last Belarusian presidential election five years ago triggered mass protests when authoritarian leader Alyaksandr Lukashenka was declared the victor despite opposition claims the balloting was rigged. Lukashenka quashed the protests and subsequently launched a harsh crackdown on dissent, democratic institutions, journalists, and opposition activists in Belarus. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Belarus Service, click here.