Lukashenko: I don't want our people to be at war

Belarusians should appreciate and preserve what Belarus has achieved, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said as he talked to employees of the Zhuravlinoye farm and residents of Pruzhany District on 19 August, BelTA has learned.

“You should keep in mind that no one will carry you on their shoulders, including me. It is true, I will help you. But I believe that a person can succeed only if he/she takes responsibility for their lives and their children. And what the government or Lukashenko will give is just a bonus. Therefore, take care of what you have," the president said.

The head of state mentioned the developments in Ukraine. Belarus has become a safe haven for thousands of Ukrainians who are now receiving Belarusian citizenship. “You should see how they work! And they are appreciative. Why? Because they have survived this ordeal, this war. And these people are our kin. We should not mistreat them,” Aleksandr Lukashenko stressed.

“Don't think that I'm planning some kind of attack, bombing Ukraine from the territory of Belarus and so on. I do not want your children and my children to be at war. In the name of what? We need to calm down. It is not Ukraine that is fighting today. Russia is confronted by entire NATO and first of all America,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.

In his opinion, Europe would have stopped this war long ago had the United States not continued to stimulate hostilities with the help of Poland.

“Therefore, take care of what you have. And don't wait for someone to bring something to you on a silver platter. We have places where we can earn money. We have everything to live and work,” the head of state said. “We will do everything to make sure you live a normal life. You need to keep moving, be proactive. Remember that it is you who need this first of all. At the same time, the government is not going to abandon its commitment to support you,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.