Lukashenko, 69, has been running Belarus since 1994. He is a close ally of Vladimir Putin and once said he regards the Russian leader as “his elder brother.”
He also warned there would be changes before the 2025 elections take place. “There is still a year ahead before the presidential elections. A lot can change. Naturally, I and all of us, the society, will react to the changes that will take place in our society and in what situation we will approach the vote in a year,” he said.
In January, Lukashenko signed a law guaranteeing himself immunity, lifelong protection, and state-provided property upon his resignation from the presidential office.
