Pavel Latushka: Deputy head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus, Head of the Anti-Crisis Management, Ambassador Karatkevich, through his talent and mastery of the Belarusian language, showcased the uniqueness and richness of Belarusian national history and culture. His contributions have had a significant impact on the present and future of the Belarusian nation. In 2010, during my tenure as Minister of Culture, I collaborated with like-minded individuals to initiate the publication of Uladzimir Karatkevich's renowned novel, "The Wild Hunt of King Stakh," simultaneously in Belarusian, Russian, Ukrainian, and English. The objective was to make the work available in both the native language and foreign languages, enabling people from other countries to become acquainted with Belarusian culture through the works of this esteemed Belarusian writer. The edition featured illustrations by Yuriy Yakovenko. Interestingly, thirteen years later, the classic book was sold for a significant sum at an auction, with the proceeds going toward supporting Belarusian political prisoners. During my tenure, I also took the initiative to erect a monument to Uladzimir Karatkevich in Kyiv, Ukraine, as the writer had strong ties to the country. He graduated from the Faculty of Philology at Kyiv State University named after T. Shevchenko and wrote works in the Ukrainian language. Today, representatives of Lukashenko's regime are attempting to remove Uladzimir Karatkevich's novel, "Spikes Under Your Sickle," from the school curriculum. This novel is one of the most famous works of the esteemed Belarusian author. Such actions undoubtedly reveal the true nature of the regime—an anti-Belarusian, anti-people, and anti-national stance. However, Belarusian culture cannot be destroyed. It withstood challenges a century ago and will continue to endure today. Thanks to individuals like Uladzimir Karatkevich, we can take pride in our cultural, literary, and historical heritage.

"The Lukashenka’s regime is building an economic model following the example of Nazi Germany — his latest decisions are evidence of this" The Head of the the NAM Pavel Latushka told how Lukashenka is building the Third Reich in the economy — on the example of the Decree "On stabilizing the financial condition of organizations" and the previously adopted draft law "On changing laws on guaranteed compensation for bank deposits." 1) Where do we see a clear parallel with 1934, between Hitler’s economy and the latest decisions of Lukashenka, and what awaits Belarusian banks, depositors and business in the near future. 2) What is wrong with the changes in the legislation on guaranteed reimbursement of deposits, what powers the Development Bank and how the regime deprived Belarusians of guarantees for the return of deposits. 3) According to decree No. 391, Lukashenka created a financial pyramid to launder the debts of the unprofitable public sector and force banks to endlessly issue new loans to it — with the help of the Asset Management Agency. 4) How are the bonds of the Development Bank and the Asset Management Agency secured? How with their help the regime intends to force Belarusians and Belarusian business to fully support themselves. 5) What is the current situation in the economy and whether sanctions are to blame for it. 6) Why some Belarusians again took their money to banks and how the regime plans to steal it. 7) How can we prevent the formation of the Nazi economy in our country, protect our economic interests and what the NAM offers. The text version is available here. We also recommend watching: A brief overview of the situation in the banking system The Beginning of the Big Robbery of the Belarusians

I have the great honor to inform you that the Embassy of Austria in Warsaw has announced the acceptance of applications for participation in the competition for the "Krzysztof Michalski Prize for Belarusian Journalists in Exile". As a member of the Board of Trustees of the Award, at the request of the Ambassador of Austria in Warsaw, Andreas Stadler, I would like to convey this information to all interested parties. In the period of brutal suppression of democratic aspirations in Belarus, the dedication of courageous journalists and investigators is more important than ever. They shed light on the truth and thereby make a vital contribution to the formation of civil society and future democracy in Belarus. Their aspiration is encouraged by the award dedicated to the Polish democratic activist and philosopher Krzysztof Michalski. Materials are accepted in 3 categories: analytical journalism that shows the role of Belarusian politics in the international context; journalistic investigation related to Belarus; young talent: for authors under 30 years old (at least 1 year of journalistic work is required). Conditions of participation: Belarusian author(s) in exile; materials must be published after summer 2020: articles, blogs, published or online (3,000–30,000 characters) materials, audio and video materials (from 5 min. to 1 h); a translated version/extended summary (EN) must be available; only one material may be accepted from one author (a list of the author's other publications and a short biography are additionally attached). The total prize fund of the award is 30,000 euros (3 categories of 10,000 euros each). The decision to award the award will be made by an authoritative independent jury, which will include well-known representatives of the journalistic community, embassy employees, and members of the Award's Board of Trustees. Applications should be sent to the email warschau-ob@bmeia.gv.at with "Prize for Belarusian Journalists" in the subject of the letter. Winners will be notified by email. The award ceremony will take place in Warsaw in 2024. Sponsor: STRABAG SE. Applications for the Krzysztof Michalski Prize for Belarusian Journalists in Exile are open until December 4.

Pavel Latushka: Deputy head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus, Head of the Anti-Crisis Management, Ambassador On November 29, 2023, Lukashenko traveled to the United Arab Emirates, announcing a series of meetings with African leaders. He stated, "You all must understand that this is a far arc of our cooperation, but this does not mean far countries. We have good relations with some of them, including trade and economic relations." So, what are these trade and economic relations with the "far arc" countries, and who benefits from them? At first glance, it may seem that Belarus and its citizens benefit from these relations. However, this would only be the case if the Belarusian economy were "the economy of a healthy person" and not "the economy of a smoker." Belarusian state-owned enterprises are supposed to supply their products directly to the markets of the Middle East and Africa and receive foreign currency for their exports. The profits would then go to the state and be redistributed among citizens through taxes. However, the reality is different. State-owned enterprises do not directly supply their products to the "far arc" countries. Instead, they go through a mysterious private company called AFTRADE DMCC, registered not in Minsk or Shklov but in sun-lit Dubai. Consequently, the proceeds from the sale of goods produced by Belarusian state-owned enterprises do not benefit them. Instead, the funds end up in the accounts of this peculiar office, which is associated with notorious individuals such as Alexander Zingman, Viktor Sheiman, and, of course, Lukashenko himself. As a result, Belarusian state-owned enterprises receive only meager returns after the revenue is funneled through this shell company. This is the fundamental principle of Lukashenko's system: Belarusians work hard to create goods and produce products, but it is Lukashenko and his associates who reap the majority of the benefits. Therefore, sanctions primarily affect businessmen who profit the most from the sale of Belarusian products, including both natural resources and goods created through the mental and physical labor of Belarusians. Ordinary citizens, contrary to propaganda, are not the primary target of these sanctions. One might wonder if imported goods from Africa and Asia satisfy the needs of Belarusians. Lukashenko often talks about establishing new production facilities in African countries and providing support and assistance, particularly in technology. However, the reality is that Lukashenko, with his like-minded associates, engages in mining activities there, including gold, diamonds, and oil. These activities are not organized by the state or the Republic of Belarus but by private companies established by Lukashenko's trusted individuals. The proceeds from the sale of these resources do not benefit the budget or ordinary Belarusians but rather flow into Lukashenko's pockets, his family, and his inner circle. This is the nature of trade and economic cooperation with the countries in the "far arc." So why did Lukashenko go to Dubai under the pretense of attending a climate summit? Does anyone genuinely believe he cares about environmental and climate issues? Lukashenko is skilled at creating such illusions. Throughout his decades of rule, he has been responsible for a series of environmental disasters, including the Svetlogorsk pulp and paper plant, the Brest battery plant, the Ostrovets nuclear power plant, and periodic issues such as discolored or foul-smelling water in Belarusian cities and waste discharges into rivers. Lukashenko's visit to Dubai was not about addressing environmental and climate concerns. His goal was to sort out his ill-gotten gains, redistribute his financial flows, and maintain control over his numerous businesses in the countries of the so-called "far arc." These are businesses built at the expense of Belarusian citizens and to their detriment. Additionally, he sought to establish new schemes to evade the sanctions imposed on his regime.

This morning, starting at 7 a.m., mass searches were initiated at the residences of the members of the National Anti-Crisis Management team and their relatives within the territory of Belarus. Subsequently, the Investigative Committee of the Lukashenko regime announced that more than 100 individuals, including members of Svetlana Tsikhanovskaya's Office, the Coordination Council, the United Transitional Cabinet, and the National Anti-Crisis Management, have been recognized as suspects, allegedly for actions aimed at seizing power and engaging in extremist activities. In response to these events, we declare that the democratic forces of Belarus will not cease our struggle for a free, democratic, and independent European Belarus. Those criminals, led by Lukashenko, who perpetrate mass crimes against humanity and war crimes against Ukraine and Ukrainian children, will be held accountable. You entered our homes without warrants, but we will return to you with warrants. Furthermore, those responsible for today's regime actions, this deplorable mass raid, will be included in our sanction proposals. We will not stop. Our actions will persist. Long live Belarus!

On the 16th of November 2023, the Humanitarian Research Laboratory at the Yale School of Public Health (Yale HRL) published a report titled 'Belarus' Cooperation with Russia in the Systematic Deportation of Ukrainian Children.' This report provides extensive documentation on the involvement of Lukashenko and his regime in the forcible displacement of children from the Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine to Belarus. The publication by HRL presents significant findings regarding the number of displaced Ukrainian children, the locations and routes of displacement, the programs implemented during the process, as well as the key individuals responsible for decision-making and execution. According to data from the National Anti-Crisis Management, HRL confirms that a minimum of 2,442 Ukrainian children between the ages of 6 and 17, including those from vulnerable groups, were forcibly displaced from 17 cities in Ukraine to at least 13 facilities in Belarus. Furthermore, a significant number of children, specifically 2,050 Ukrainian children, were transferred to the Belarusian camp known as "Dubrava." HRL emphasizes that the displacement of this magnitude can be reliably confirmed, and it is highly likely that the actual number of illegally displaced Ukrainian children surpasses the reported figure. The forced displacement of Ukrainian children by Belarus and Russia, along with their re-education involving military training and weapon use, is characterized as systematic. The report reveals that the relocation of Ukrainian children was directly coordinated between Lukashenko and Russian President V. Putin under the guise of a so-called 'military training' program. Putin acted within the framework of the Union State agreement with the support of the intelligence agencies of both Russia and Belarus. Lukashenko, in turn, exercised direct control over Belarus' involvement in the illegal movement of Ukrainian children, approving the financing of their transfer from the joint budget of the Union State and engaging state and non-state organizations in Belarus to facilitate the process. Key entities involved in identifying Ukrainian children subjected to displacement include the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation, the Border Department of the Federal Security Service of Russia in the Rostov region, and the Ministry of Education of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DNR) and Luhansk People's Republic (LNR). The Ministry of Education of the LNR issued thirty powers of attorney for the relocation of Ukrainian orphans. Individuals such as Aleksei Talai and his foundation, Olga Volkova and her organization 'Dolphins,' and Belaruskali played significant roles in the relocation of Ukrainian children to Belarus. The report also cites Pavel Latushka discussing the involvement of the head of Belaruskali in the relocation process. Regarding the re-education programs implemented for Ukrainian children, HRL found that at least 9 groups, distributed across 8 out of the 13 institutions, were subjected to such programs. These re-education initiatives included the promotion of cultural, historical, social, patriotic, and other ideas that served the political interests of the regimes in Belarus and Russia. Additionally, at least 6 groups of Ukrainian children received military training in Belarus, including at the bases of Belarusian internal security forces. The process of re-education involved Russian and Belarusian officials, pro-regime public organizations, ultra-nationalist extremist groups, state-owned industrial companies, local organizations in Belarus, and pro-regime politicians. Earlier, on the 14th of February 2023, the Humanitarian Research Laboratory at the Yale School of Public Health published a report on Russia's reeducation and adoption program for Ukrainian children, which attributed responsibility for organizing such a program to Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova. Following the publication of this report, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for these individuals on the 17th of March 2023. Head of the NAM, Pavel Latushka, stated, "This report from an independent and authoritative organization actually confirms all the facts previously submitted by the National Anti-Crisis Management to the International Criminal Court. This fact undoubtedly strengthens the work of the NAM, aimed at preventing the illegal transfer of Ukrainian children to Belarus and the prosecution of the main offenders. Democracy wins when accountability comes. Lukashenko and his accomplices commit thousands of crimes against Belarusians and Ukrainians. The facts of the crimes are recorded by various international organizations and institutions. All of them are qualified in accordance with the criminal legislation. Therefore, there is every reason to believe that justice will prevail and Lukashenko will be punished for his crimes. Otherwise, democracy will not win.” The new publication by HRL complements the February report by highlighting the role of Lukashenko and other representatives of his regime in the transfer and re-education of children from the Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine to Belarus.

Deputy Head of NAM, Artsiom Brukhan, on repressive changes in the so-called legislation Lukashenko aims to isolate everyone behind the Iron Curtain and exert total control. This week, the illegitimate authorities introduced several changes and additions to the so-called legislation concerning the travel procedures for Belarusian citizens abroad. The updated procedure for registering permanent residence abroad includes a significant change. There will now be a universal mark in the passport, no longer tied to a specific country. This could potentially be followed by an obligation to allow travel only for individuals with such a mark or a valid visa from the Republic of Belarus, greatly limiting the freedom of movement for Belarusians. It is important to remember that previously, the illegitimate authorities required Belarusian citizens to report their foreign citizenship or residence permit, as well as possession of a Pole card. The KGB is now empowered to restrict travel for individuals under preventive registration with state security agencies or for those whose travel contradicts the national security interests of the Republic of Belarus. Furthermore, recent changes have also affected government officials. All civil servants are now required to obtain permission from their superiors for any travel abroad, whether it be a tourist trip, a weekend excursion, a shopping tour, or a visit to relatives. Coordination of departures from Belarus for officials and judges will be based on an application submitted no later than 10 calendar days before the departure date. However, it is likely that these timeframes may be extended significantly, given that these permits will be issued exclusively by heads of government agencies who may have thousands of subordinates under their command. In conclusion, we are faced with a new reality from which even those who chose to remain within the system can no longer escape. Lukashenko is a problem that affects all Belarusians without exception. The solution lies in our unity as Belarusians. We are well aware of the national consensus reached in 2020 and the path we all chose with an overwhelming majority of votes. It is clear who violated this agreement and stole our choice. The choice remains unchanged. Lukashenko must fade into oblivion. Today, even those who were once hesitant to stand with the people in 2020 understand this reality.

On November 25, Warsaw hosted the presentation of the preliminary report titled "Systemic discrimination, human rights violations, and political repression by the Lukashenko regime against Belarusian citizens living abroad and ways to overcome it." The document, prepared by NAM lawyers, aims to systematize information about the actions of Lukashenko's regime targeting Belarusians living abroad, as well as ways to counter repressive measures and mitigate the negative consequences for those. Previously, NAM lawyers documented and systematized 15 forms of rights violations, discrimination, and repression against Belarusians abroad resulting from the actions of Lukashenko's regime. These include: Revoking deferment of military service for citizens studying at foreign universities. Detentions upon border crossings or when applying for visas. Impeding participation in elections for citizens residing abroad. Criminal prosecution in absentia and confiscation of property belonging to political emigrants. Prohibition of issuing passports abroad. Prohibition of property transactions based on foreign-issued power of attorney. Prohibition of obtaining different kinds of official papers based on foreign-issued power of attorney. Requirements for Belarusian citizens to report on foreign residency permits, permanent residency, citizenship, and other documents. Destruction of property and arrest of emigrants' relatives. Discrimination against Belarusians abroad based on their place of residence by local actors. Obstacles in obtaining apostilles for documents, including extended deadlines and increased costs, among others. The listed rights violations are not exhaustive, as NAM lawyers continue to gather information on repressive measures taken by the regime against Belarusians abroad. The event was attended by representatives from the National Academy of Sciences, the Polish Academy of Sciences, the Warsaw and Netherlands Bar Associations, the OSCE ODIHR, the Polish Ombudsman, foreign diplomats, and representatives from the Polish law firm "WKB Wierciński, Kwieciński, Baehr," and the Juliusz Mieroszewski Dialogue Center. During the presentation, proposals were collected regarding systematic solutions to the problems related to the violation of the rights of Belarusians abroad. Pavel Latushka, the head of NAU, stated: "In the countries where Belarusians reside today, the rule of law takes precedence. Therefore, the issues faced by Belarusians living abroad are not solely their own problems; they are the problems of the governments of those countries. It is crucial to systematize and identify solutions to these problems so that Belarusians do not find themselves in a legal vacuum abroad due to the repressive actions of the regime." The working group of lawyers will continue to work on the report, taking into account the comments and suggestions received during the discussion. After the completion of systematization, the report's materials will be sent to and presented before the governments of countries where Belarusians reside, with the aim of countering the discrimination resulting from the regime's repressive actions.

Pavel Latushka, Deputy Head of the United Transitional Cabinet of Belarus and Head of the National Anti-Crisis Management, Ambassador Lukashenko recently signed a decree establishing the Council for Strategic Projects with the aim of enhancing the planning, development, and implementation of strategic initiatives. However, it raises the question of what these specific projects are that necessitated the creation of another council under Lukashenko's leadership. Former Minister of Economy Alexander Chervyakov previously announced seven planned strategic projects for the near future. Alongside the construction of a new nuclear power plant, Chervyakov mentioned the construction of a new pulp mill in Belarus. It is worth noting that Lukashenko had already initiated the creation of a pulp and paper mill. While the project to modernize the Svetlogorsk pulp and paper mill and establish a new production of bleached sulphate pulp may not be comparable in scale to a nuclear power plant, the harm-to-benefit ratio for the pulp and paper mill could potentially be even worse. The project to build a pulp mill based on the Svetlogorsk pulp and paper mill lasted for ten years and incurred a cost of one billion dollars. However, the construction was significantly delayed. The Svetlogorsk Pulp and paper millwas initially scheduled to launch in 2016 but faced multiple deadline extensions, with completion finally projected for 2017. In 2019, the management of the Svetlogorsk pulp and paper mill commenced the process of terminating the contract with the Chinese general contractor. The reasons cited were violations of construction standards and deadlines, delivery of faulty equipment, and the emergence of a strong unpleasant odor near the plant. Furthermore, the general contractor refused to put the enterprise into commercial operation. As a result, Lukashenko's regime severed ties with the Chinese investors, leaving a debt of $650 million to two Chinese banks. In mid-2019, the plant operated in a pilot mode with a utilization rate of only about 60%. The Ministry of Finance of Belarus partially repaid the debt owed to Chinese banks by the Svetlogorsk pulp and paper mill. Consequently, the construction of the bleached pulp plant rendered the Svetlogorsk plant financially unviable, as it had not shown a net profit since 2012. By early 2019, the company's total debt amounted to approximately $900 million, exceeding the value of its fixed assets. The deadline for the full readiness of the new plant was subsequently postponed multiple times, and it was officially launched only in 2020. Nevertheless, even in 2021 and 2022, the plant operated at only 70% capacity. In the first ten months of 2022, the plant produced 220 thousand tons of cellulose, falling short of its design capacity of 400 thousand tons. However, the economic issues faced by the Svetlogorsk pulp and paper mill are not the only concern; they are further compounded by the environmental disaster caused by the new production facility. The construction of the bleached pulp plant has significantly worsened the environmental situation in Svetlogorsk. Following the plant's trial operation, local residents began complaining about unpleasant odors, difficulty breathing, nausea, sore throats, and vomiting. Local authorities and plant representatives acknowledged the emissions but attributed them to temporary issues associated with equipment adjustments during the process of reaching the design capacity. They emphasized that air samples did not reveal any exceedance of maximum allowable pollutant concentrations. However, calculations by the Belarusian Research Center "Ecology" indicated that concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and formaldehyde in the residential area of the city exceeded the maximum permissible levels by 60% to 96%. The environmental problems are accompanied by safety concerns. In May 2019, plant employees shared photographs of a collapsed roof in one of the new workshops on social media. On July 30, 2020, a pipe containing a hot alkaline mixture ruptured during repair work, causing severe burns to two individuals, one of whom later died in the hospital. In October 2020, an explosion occurred in a tall oil tank, resulting in the death of a worker. Thus, at least two individuals have already lost their lives due to Lukashenko's strategic project. Currently, a new project is underway at the Svetlogorsk pulp and paper mill involving the construction of a cardboard production workshop. The projected payback period for this project is ten years. Production was planned to commence this year; however, there have been further setbacks. In general, according to Lukashenko and his officials, the production of cardboard packaging represents a breakthrough and advanced technology. The Svetlogorsk pulp and paper mill exemplifies Lukashenko's approach to implementing strategic projects. It involves investing significant time and money into a megaproject, discovering that it does not function as intended, and then spending even more money to transform it into a super megaproject. Moreover, these endeavors do not prioritize mega-efficiency or super-profitability; instead, they entail mega-expenses driven by the megalomania of one mustachioed state farm "genius." Recently, the press reported that the Svetlogorsk pulp and paper mill was fined 3.34 million rubles by the court of the Gomel region. The company is also required to pay a state duty of 33 thousand rubles. However, the illegitimate authorities, seemingly fearing public discontent, swiftly refuted this information. Bellesbumprom, in addition to the refutation, stated that the company had indeed faced penalties in court, but solely for delayed compliance with environmental permits due to their expiration. Nevertheless, such explanations do not negate the problems generated by the Svetlogorsk pulp and paper mill in recent years. But does this deter Lukashenko and his megalomania? No, quite the opposite. Lukashenko and his entourage are now preparing a surprise, not for the residents of Svetlogorsk, but for another Belarusian city. Which Belarusian city will be "fortunate" enough to host another environmental and economic disaster? Only time will tell. Unfortunately, Lukashenko and the system he has established seem to have no other method of implementing "strategic projects" except at the expense of the people. For every failure, this regime always has the same response. They construct one useless and costly BelNPP, not with their own funds? Let's build another one! They build one unprofitable and hazardous project that endangers people's health and lives, again not with their own money? Excellent, let's take out a loan and build another one! The only measure of "progress" in all these mediocre ideas is Lukashenko's growing megalomania, which the entire country suffers from.

The interests of Belarusians should be considered November 27th commemorates the anniversary of the Slutsk uprising in 1920, a significant event in the defense of Belarusian independence. This uprising showcased the determination of the Belarusian people to fight for their land and safeguard their national interests. The brave soldiers of the Slutsk defense demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the ideals of Belarusian independence, exhibiting courage and loyalty to their homeland. In the late 1980s, this historic event began to be celebrated as Heroes' Day. The interests of Belarusians must be acknowledged. The ideals of the Belarusian fighters for independence remain relevant today: the aspiration for an independent nation, not merely a territory caught between Poland and Russia. Belarusians steadfastly defend their national interests, just as they did a century ago. Throughout history, Belarusians have strived for peaceful transitions of power during numerous pivotal elections. However, it is crucial to recognize that if the independence, land, or people of Belarus are threatened, Belarusians are prepared to protect their interests with bravery and dedication to their national principles. Regrettably, the threat to our country's independence persists. The criminal and puppet regime's efforts to cling to power in Belarus have exacerbated this problem, making it a pressing concern. Nevertheless, like a century ago, all those who currently stand for Belarus desire to live in a free and independent nation. Today, the overwhelming majority of Belarusians share this aspiration. The Belarusian people exemplified their desire for freedom and justice to the world in 2020 when hundreds of thousands united against violence and lawlessness on our soil. Presently, the magnitude of the Belarusians' struggle is unprecedented in history, underscoring our inherent connection to our homeland. Consequently, we will persist in our fight for an independent Belarus. These significant historical events will make us and future generations proud of the bravery and conscience of the Belarusian nation. The current momentous struggle of Belarusians will undoubtedly find its place in the textbooks a century from now—textbooks of a Free and Independent Belarus. Today, we celebrate Heroes' Day. This occasion serves as a reminder that Belarusians possess a rich history, a remarkable culture, and a valuable heritage. It is what fate has bestowed upon us, what we are fighting for, and what unites Belarusians worldwide. We will defend our independence, and anyone who attempts to encroach upon it will inevitably face our resistance. Long live Belarus! Pavel Latushka on 27.11.2023

Why did Lukashenko postpone his visit to the Gomel Kristall plant from November 3 to November 17? It has been discovered that the European Commission is preparing a new package of sanctions and proposing a ban on the import and transit of Russian diamonds and diamond jewelry starting from the beginning of 2024. According to the proposal, the ban would cover non-industrial natural and synthetic diamonds, as well as diamond jewelry, starting from January 2024. Additionally, a gradual ban on the import of Russian diamonds processed in third countries, including jewelry containing Russian diamonds, will be implemented from March 1 to September 1. In Belarus, there is the Gomel jewelry plant "Kristall," which serves as a leading manufacturer of jewelry, diamonds, and diamond tools. Several times, the NAM team and the United Transitional Cabinet have informed their partners that implementing sanctions solely against Russia while bypassing the Lukashenko regime leads to ineffective sanctions that can be easily circumvented. Both regimes have anticipated the potential impact of upcoming sanctions on Russian diamonds. Lukashenko decided to personally showcase his significance in this matter and planned a visit to “Kristall” on November 3, which had to be rescheduled. What was the reason behind the delay of Lukashenko's visit to “Kristall”? What occurred during that time? From November 6 to 11, the Kimberley Process took place. It is an international certification scheme that governs the trade of rough diamonds, aimed at preventing the flow of blood diamonds and safeguarding the legal trade of rough diamonds worldwide. The Kimberley Process was approved by the UN in 2003 and currently comprises 85 countries, including the USA, the European Union, Russia, China, several African states, and Belarus. The purpose of this Kimberley Process meeting was to counter Russia's financing of the war against Ukraine through the sale of rough diamonds and diamonds, including to the Lukashenko regime. The primary focus of the Kimberley Process was the discussion of changes to the certification scheme approved by UN resolution 55/56, which seeks to address the issue of illegally mined diamonds financing not only rebel groups but also countries involved in warfare against other governments. If an expanded definition is adopted, it would also encompass rough diamonds mined in Russia and sold abroad in circumvention of sanctions. However, as is the case with decision-making processes aimed at combating war, extremism, violence, and other crimes, there are risks associated with the participation of representatives from regimes such as Belarus and Russia, as well as so-called "friendly" countries. These risks include the potential obstruction of sanctions and restrictive decisions. Unfortunately, this was the outcome on this occasion as well. Belarus, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, and the Central African Republic (CAR) denounced the proposal to broaden the concept of "blood diamonds" as politically motivated and refused to agree to the new wording. Consequently, the negotiations yielded no results. Why is the Kristall enterprise so important for the regime today? The Lukashenko regime is already anticipating new financial flows resulting from its involvement in the "blood diamonds" business. After the completion of the Kimberley Process meeting, he embarked on a visit to OJSC Gomel PO Kristall, which has a role as a participant in schemes for the purchase and sale of rough diamonds and diamonds mined in Russia, which in turn finance Russia's further aggression against Ukraine. In this Lukashenko scheme, the role of "Kristall" is merely that of a performer and a potential candidate for sanctions. All proceeds from these transactions will ultimately end up in the accounts of Lukashenko's trustees and, once again, in countries friendly to him. If representatives or employees of Kristall seek to understand the dictator's operations, they will likely find themselves receiving explanations elsewhere—behind bars. It's only a matter of time before the new criminal case earns its name: "diamond." Russia confirmed the importance of Belarus’ apparent “independence” to circumvent sanctions As a result of the Kimberley Process meeting, another crucial point was clearly recorded. In 2023, Zimbabwe, a strong ally of Lukashenko, assumed the chairmanship of the Kimberley Process. This is a common occurrence when dealing with dictators. Belarus, however, was the only country to submit an application for the positions of Vice-Chairman in 2024 and Chairman in 2025. Despite this, participants of the meeting blocked the nomination of Lukashenko's representatives for these roles. Western countries objected to supporting such a close ally of Russia. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will assume the chairmanship of the Kimberley Process in 2024. The Lukashenko regime received another clear message to understand its place, but the Russian Ministry of Finance expressed indignation during the meeting, citing "discrimination" against their accomplice in military aggression against Ukraine and as a country aiding in circumventing sanctions. If the regime's plans come to fruition, much of which depends on our partners in the EU and the USA, Lukashenko and his wealthy family in Belarus will gain additional sources of profit from the resale of "blood diamonds." Effective sanctions and actions against aggressive Russia must be introduced harmoniously, synchronously, and simultaneously. They should be targeted not only against the Lukashenko regime but also be controlled in order to bring about peace, law and order, and the downfall of two regimes that have caused immense suffering and misfortune to millions of people.

Pavel Latushko commented on the change of ambassador to China Lukashenko has made several personnel appointments within his self-proclaimed diplomatic corps. As a result, Ambassador Yuri Senko, who Lukashenko claimed failed to fulfill his duties, was dismissed from his position. In his place, the usurper appointed Alexander Chervyakov, the Minister of Economy and a namesake of Lukashenko. Senko served as ambassador for less than three years, whereas the minimum contract length for serving as an ambassador is five years. Lukashenko has high expectations for Chervyakov as a diplomat, particularly due to the challenging state of relations with the People's Republic of China. This primarily pertains to investments from China and the bilateral trade between the two countries. China is dissatisfied with Lukashenko for two reasons: All of Belarus' neighboring EU countries have closed several border checkpoints. There is a threat of complete border closure if the dictator does not cease destabilizing the situation with illegal migrants. Lukashenko introduced nuclear weapons to Belarus. Another appointment is the new ambassador to Serbia, Sergei Malinovsky. When appointing Malinovsky to his new position, Lukashenko complained that the Serbs "forgot the good with which we (referring to himself, Lukashenko) came to them," and instead support European-American sanctions against him. However, Serbia, when faced with the choice between Lukashenko and maintaining good economic relations with the West, ultimately opts for the West. Despite the fondness for Putin and Lukashenko among many Serbian politicians, Serbia intends to join the EU, not the Union State of Belarus and Russia. This decision stems from the fact that only the EU brings economic prosperity and development to the people of Serbia, rather than the senseless wars and devastation offered by an alliance of elderly dictators known as the "Union State." Geographically and culturally distinct countries like China and Serbia, when it comes to the final choice, strive to strengthen their relations with the economically and technologically advanced Western world rather than the Lukashenko regime. Only by dismantling the Lukashenko regime will Belarus be able to establish normal and healthy relations not only with Western countries but also with Serbia and China.