Lithuania says hotline with Belarus remains operational despite tensions - LRT

In Belarus around 21 May 2026, Lukashenko said Belarus will not be dragged into the war in Ukraine but will defend itself together with Russia. He said he is ready to meet Zelensky 'anywhere', in Ukraine or Belarus, to discuss current disputes between the two countries.

Zelensky had warned Moscow over threats coming from Belarus, and Lukashenko commented on those warnings. Separately, Lithuania said its hotline with Belarus remains operational despite tensions, and a VCIOM survey placed Lukashenko at the top of a trust rating among post-Soviet leaders in Russia.