Lukashenko calls for compromise between Russia and Ukraine

In Belarus in mid-June 2026 (16 June), Lukashenko called on Russia and Ukraine to compromise and sent a peace message to world leaders. He apologized to Zelensky and insisted Belarus poses no military threat to Ukraine.

Kyiv Post described this as a reversal of his tough talk on Ukraine, with Lukashenko saying Belarus cannot defend itself. An expert quoted by BelTA said there is 'no need for excessive emotionality' about the peace message. In an interview with Al Arabiya, Lukashenko spoke about the Iran war, Ukraine and Trump and said 'Gaza is a holocaust'.