Zelenskyy meets Belarusian opposition leader in Kyiv, reaffirms support

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, the leader of Belarus's democratic opposition, to Kyiv, emphasizing Ukraine's solidarity with Belarusians striving to overcome Russian interference. The meeting highlighted Ukraine's support for Belarus's aspirations for genuine independence from Moscow.

"We value every expression of support from Belarusians for a free Ukraine and know that the day will come when good-neighborly relations will be restored between our states, based on the true independence of Ukraine and Belarus from Moscow," Zelenskyy stated. He added that Ukraine has never posed a threat to Belarus and is grateful to those Belarusians currently supporting Ukraine, as the fate of independence for Ukraine and all countries bordering Russia is being decided.

Zelenskyy pointed out the significance of Belarus's participation in the summit, noting it was the first time the country was represented in such a format. He made a pointed remark about recent comments from Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who had suggested it was time for the Ukrainian and Belarusian presidents to meet. "How interestingly things have unfolded: Lukashenko said it, and S. Tsikhanouskaya arrived. It's a pleasure to see you, Sviatlana," Zelenskyy quipped, highlighting the political complexities surrounding Belarus's alignment.

Tsikhanouskaya, who arrived in Kyiv on May 25, has previously called for the Belarusian military to expel Russian forces from the country and close the border with Russia. This visit occurs amidst ongoing discussions about Belarus's role in the conflict, with Lukashenko having previously expressed openness to dialogue with Ukraine.