DISINFO: Belarusian opposition prepares coup; foreign sponsors foster terrorism
SUMMARY
The opposition is preparing a coup d’état in Belarus. Its foreign sponsors are relying on terrorism and extremism. Belarus is facing hybrid hostile activities; political, economic, military and information pressure on Minsk is increasing. Destabilising efforts are becoming bolder, more cynical and more sophisticated.
RESPONSE
This is a recurring disinformation narrative from pro-Kremlin outlets, claiming that the West is using the Belarusian opposition to topple Alyaksandr Lukashenka.
It is also often claimed that foreign sponsors, particularly, Poland, Lithuania and Ukraine are involved in some alleged “terrorist” activities against Belarus.
In reality, the West advocates peaceful transformation in Belarus. The European Union stands with the people of Belarus and condemns all forms of repression against them.
The European Union is interested in a free and democratic Belarus, but it also underlines that the power transfer should be peaceful, and any violent action is out of the question.
Lukashenka launched a massive repression campaign against the opposition after last August’s presidential elections which are widely believed to have been rigged. Many Belarusians have since fled abroad. The European Union does not recognise the results of the vote, calls for honest elections and applies restrictive measures against Lukashenka.
Read more disinformation narratives about the West’s alleged attempts to stage a coup in Belarus and remove Lukashenka by force.