MINSK, 16 November (BelTA) – The Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has made a few comments in response to provocations at the Belarusian-Polish border, in particular, the use of special gear and ammunition against refugees, BelTA has learned.
Press Secretary of the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Anatoly Glaz said: “The Polish side is directly provoking border incidents. They use special gear in Belarus' territory. Defenseless people are being choked with gas and deafened with stun grenades. Moreover, we have information that Polish law enforcement personnel have already started throwing stones at people. Some have been hurt. It is an objective reality of actions of the country that continues teaching the right democracy and respect for human rights to its neighbors. What's next? A humanitarian artillery bombardment of miserable women and children at the border?”
The official remarked it goes without saying that such actions directly violate a number of international and bilateral norms and agreements. “Theoretically it is difficult to imagine how one can justify the use of special gear and ammunition in the territory of another sovereign country. This is why the relevant official reaction will surely follow from our side,” the press secretary said. “We are initiating the investigation of the incident with assistance of international organizations since all the facts are obvious. But we will not be driven by these provocations.”
The official said Belarus is interested in a civilized resolution of the situation, including taking into account interests of people, and Belarus constantly repeats it. “While Poland keeps using water cannons against them, Belarus provides humanitarian aid every day,” he remarked.
According to the source, the goal of the Polish side is absolutely understandable: the country has to raise tensions even higher and nip in the bud any attempts to resolve the situation normally. “This is why after a detailed discussion of the problem at the top level yesterday, today we see Poland's direct provocation and mistreatment of the disadvantaged individuals. Certainly, this mockery has to stop. I repeat once again we've always been interested in a normal, constructive, and civilized resolution of the situation,” the press secretary concluded.
