Lukashenko Calls for an End to Ukraine War as Belarus Seeks Rapprochement With Washington

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has renewed calls for an end to the war in Ukraine, saying that “everyone is tired” and predicting that the conflict could end within months. Speaking at a security conference in Minsk on November 3, he also warned that continued escalation could risk a wider international confrontation. His forecast, however, represents his personal assessment rather than an agreed peace timetable.

The remarks come amid renewed diplomatic engagement between Minsk and Washington. Belarus has reportedly released 250 political prisoners in March and another 25 in September as part of negotiations that included sanctions relief. A visit by OSCE Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioğlu has provided another opportunity for diplomatic contact.

These developments raise questions about Lukashenko’s strategy as Belarus faces economic isolation and remains heavily dependent on Russia for military and economic support. Although he has allowed Russian forces to use Belarusian territory during the invasion of Ukraine, his outreach to Washington may reflect an effort to secure greater diplomatic flexibility and reduce his country’s dependence on Moscow.

However, calls for peace do not necessarily signal a break with Vladimir Putin. Lukashenko continues to defend Russia while criticizing Western policy. His recent moves may therefore represent an attempt to balance relations with both sides and protect his own political position rather than abandon the alliance with Moscow.