Belarusian dictator Lukashenko was reportedly hospitalized in critical condition after collapsing
Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko ‘is rushed to Moscow hospital as he falls seriously ill for the second time in a month after collapsing while on a trip to Russia’
- Lukashenko mysteriously disappeared from public view earlier this month
- Authorities released a photo of him after missing events, but he appears to be ill again
According to reports, Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko fell seriously ill for the second time in Moscow this month.
The 68-year-old is said to have been hospitalized in “critical” condition after collapsing while traveling to meet with his close ally Vladimir Putin.
After disappearing from public view on May 9, he was seen having trouble speaking and with his arm bandaged last week, sparking rumors about his health condition.
Despite efforts by local authorities to end speculation about photos and videos of the leader in office on May 15, doctors are again raising health concerns.
His office previously declined to comment.
Lukashenko has been one of Putin’s closest allies since invading Ukraine last year
Valery Tsepkalo, Belarusian opposition leader, said: “According to the information we have, which requires further confirmation, Lukashenko – after a meeting with Putin behind closed doors – was urgently taken to the Central Clinical Hospital in Moscow, where he is now.”
His condition was judged “critical” by leading Russian doctors and his blood was “purified”. He was found unable to return to Belarus.
His plane was reportedly turned back on the hour-long flight to Minsk to cover up his hospitalization in Moscow.
Lukashenko is Putin’s closest ally in the war in Ukraine – but there is already speculation that he may have been poisoned by Russian intelligence agencies, who may be looking for an even more obedient leader in Minsk.
Tsepkalo said: “Organized action to rescue the Belarusian dictator was intended to deter speculation about possible Kremlin involvement in his poisoning.”
“It doesn’t matter if he gets back to work or not, doctors are warning of a possible recurrence.”
When he fell ill earlier this month, Lukashenko insisted on being rushed back to Minsk and there were rumors he didn’t trust Russian doctors.
He underwent surgery in Minsk and appeared weak and dazed afterward.
On May 15, authorities released media showing him in uniform, apparently in an attempt to end speculation about his health.
In both Moscow and Minsk, he appeared to have a catheter in his arm.
Before returning to Moscow last week for the annual Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) summit, Lukashenko said he had been suffering from “adenovirus,” adding, “So I don’t plan on dying, folks.”
He would “torment” his enemies for a long time, he said.
Regarding his current condition, Belarusian political analyst Dmitry Bolkunets said: “Information about the deterioration of Lukashenka’s health is confirmed.”
“He’s in the Central Clinical Hospital in Moscow.” They’re trying to get him up and show him to the public.’
He said: “In the event of a threat to his life, Lukashenko could be removed from office.”
“Powers will be transferred to Natalya Kochanova.” [speaker of the upper house of parliament] or the Collective Security Council.’
62-year-old Kochanova is considered the Iron Lady of Belarus, loyal to Lukashenko and Putin.
BNEIntelliNews said analysts thought a poisoning on Putin’s orders was “very unlikely” because “the Kremlin doesn’t want a succession dispute to throw Belarus into chaos, and particularly doesn’t want to see a new presidential election that could spark a new wave of similar mass protests.” “ to those that followed the massively rigged August 2020 elections that brought Lukashenko back into office.”
The legitimate president of Belarus is Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who was stripped of her victory in 2020 because Lukashenko rigged the election.
Given Lukashenko’s recent illness, she said people must “be prepared for any scenario.”
Lukashenko arrives at a session of the Supreme Eurasian Economic Council on May 25
Lukashenko announced earlier this week that Moscow’s nuclear weapons would be stationed in his country, a move NATO called “dangerous and irresponsible” nuclear rhetoric.
Belarus borders three NATO members in Eastern Europe alongside Ukraine and Russia.
The US said it was “monitoring” the movements, but White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre added: “We have seen no reason to adjust our own nuclear stance…nor any indication that Russia ready to use nuclear weapons.’ Belarus.’