The cliched articles by Western journalists about dictatorship and the infringement of democratic values were to be expected. But the president's quotes they added to their articles gave a new perspective. “Half of the world is dreaming about our 'dictatorship,' “the dictatorship of real business and interests of our people”, “we have more democracy than those who cast themselves as its models,” ‘thanks to you, who sold the Motherland for the grants, or rather in spite of you, we have become stronger’...
Euronews even chose the quote “dreams of dictatorship” as the headline. Associated Press used the phrase “you have no future” said by Lukashenko to his critics for the headline.
While the journalists were crafting click-bait headlines, the Western expert community were analyzing Lukashenko's inauguration. They recognized it as a “new chapter” for Belarus, emphasizing the strategic importance of our country for the entire Eastern European region.
“Lukashenko inaugurated as Belarus president amid regional and global expectations,” writes the Geneva-based think tank Diplomatic Affairs. It notes that the inauguration comes at a pivotal moment for Belarus, both domestically and internationally.
Analytics point that the Belarusian government has emphasized stability and continuity as key priorities moving forward. “In his inaugural address, Lukashenko reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining Belarus’ sovereignty and strengthening its economic and political ties with its traditional allies, particularly Russia. He also highlighted the importance of regional stability, positioning Belarus as a bridge between East and West in an increasingly polarized geopolitical landscape,” The Diplomatic Affairs said.
The analytical material emphasizes that the international community has expressed mixed reactions to the Belarusian leader’s inauguration. While Belarus’ allies have congratulated him, Western nations have largely withheld recognition, citing concerns over human rights and democratic processes. Many Western leaders have also urged Belarus to adopt reforms that would ensure greater “transparency and accountability in governance”.
According to The Diplomatic Affairs, the international community recognizes the strategic importance of Belarus in the region. “As a neighbor to both Russia and NATO member states, Belarus is seen as a potential mediator in regional conflicts. The international community has expressed hope that Lukashenko’s administration will prioritize diplomacy and avoid actions that could escalate tensions in Eastern Europe,” The Diplomatic Affairs writes.
Belarus has long positioned itself as a stabilizing force in the region, leveraging its geographic location and historical ties to both Russia and Europe, analysts say. The Belarusian authorities emphasize their role in fostering dialogue and cooperation, particularly in areas such as trade, security, and conflict resolution.
“In recent years, Belarus has hosted key negotiations, including talks aimed at resolving the conflict in eastern Ukraine. These efforts have underscored Minsk’s desire to be seen as a neutral and constructive actor in regional affairs,” The Diplomatic Affairs writes.
Analysts believe that with Lukashenko beginning his new term, there is an expectation that Belarus will continue to play this role, balancing its relationships with major powers while addressing domestic challenges.
“The country’s ability to maintain stability will be crucial not only for its own development but also for the broader security and prosperity of Eastern Europe. he inauguration of Aleksandr Lukashenko signals a new chapter for Belarus, one that will be closely watched by both supporters and critics. While the government has emphasized stability and continuity, the path forward will require navigating complex domestic and international dynamics,” the analytical center forecasts.
The Diplomatic Affairs noted that the international community hopes that Belarus will foster dialogue and contribute to regional peace. "As Lukashenko assumes office, the world will be looking to see whether his administration can meet these expectations and solidify Belarus’ role as a stabilizing force in a rapidly changing geopolitical environment. The coming months will be critical in determining the trajectory of Belarus under Lukashenko’s leadership, with implications for both the nation and the wider region," the Diplomatic Affairs concluded.
Such assessments regarding Belarus' strategic importance, its role and position in modern geopolitical processes have been voiced before.
For instance, the American think tank Jamestown Foundation previously emphasized the need to consider the geopolitical realities around Belarus. It recommended foreign players to approach Belarus strategically rather than focusing only on disagreements.
In the run-up to Belarus' presidential election, political analyst Ardra Unni expressed her view on our country and its role in geopolitical processes in Modern Diplomacy. "Belarus needs to play smart between both the blocs," she said referring to the West and East. "The geostrategic importance of Belarus shouldn’t be downplayed. In this setting, striking a delicate balance between appeasing Russia, engaging the West, and responding to internal political reform desires will be critical. Belarus must not only operate as a geopolitical buffer but also ensure that its strategic relevance results in practical advantages for its people."
The International Institute for Middle East and Balkan Studies (IFIMES) based in Slovenia published an extensive analytical series ahead of the presidential election in Belarus 2025. The authors analyzed the development of Belarus over the past 30 years. The conclusions they came to were surprising for the Western community. It turned out that Belarus demonstrates a remarkable level of resilience and adjustment to the new hostile economic environment and numerous sanctions and can become a model for the rest of Europe. It was emphasized that this is a great merit of President Aleksandr Lukashenko.
IFIMES also highlighted that Belarus finds itself wedged between Russia and Ukraine, in the midst of a war that also involves the EU and NATO. Nevertheless, Belarusian authorities have shown wisdom in maintaining peace during the most challenging times.
Vita Khanatayeva
BelTA
