Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron and emphasised that interfering in the republic’s domestic affairs and putting pressure on the Belarusian leadership would be unacceptable.
It is noted that the conversation took place on the initiative of the French side.
"When discussing the tensions in Belarus, Vladimir Putin emphasised that interfering in the republic’s domestic affairs and putting pressure on the Belarusian leadership would be unacceptable. Both parties expressed interest in the prompt resolution of the problems," the message reads.
Mass opposition protests began across Belarus on August 9, after the presidential election, which was won by Lukashenko – according to the CEC, he won 80.1% of the vote. In the first days, the actions were suppressed by security forces, and tear gas, water cannons, stun grenades, and rubber bullets were used against protesters who did not agree with the results. Then law enforcement agencies stopped dispersing rallies and using force methods. According to official data, more than 6,700 people were detained in the first days. As reported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic, hundreds of people were injured during the riots, including more than 120 law enforcement officers. According to the Ministry of Health of Belarus, two protesters died.
The situation in Libya
Putin and Macron also discussed the Libyan crisis over the phone.
"The two leaders had a comprehensive exchange of opinions on the Libyan crisis," the message reads.
It was agreed to maintain contacts at various levels.
In Libya, the conflict continues between the Government of National Accord of Fayez Sarraj, which controls Tripoli and territories in the West of the country, and the Libyan National Army under the command of Marshal Khalifa Haftar, which cooperates with the Parliament sitting in the East. The GNA is supported by Turkey and Qatar, while the LNA is supported by Egypt and the UAE.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: official website of the President of the Russian Federation
Based on materials from RIA Novosti