Lukashenko Calls for Global Nuclear Disarmament, Predicts End to Strait of Hormuz Conflict

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has voiced support for the complete elimination of nuclear weapons worldwide, warning that allowing more countries to acquire them would lead to global catastrophe. In an interview with Al Arabiya, as reported by TASS, Lukashenko stated, "I'm for nuclear disarmament, and this applies to everyone: Russia, the United States, China, Israel, India, Pakistan, and other nations." He added, "This applies to all of them."

During the interview, Lukashenko was asked whether the US-Israeli attack on Iran, conducted under the pretext of preventing Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons, could spur other countries to pursue nuclear programs for self-defense. He acknowledged that many countries are considering this option but condemned such a path. "Yes, many countries are talking about that. But this is a road nowhere, this is a path of destruction," he said. "Today, we consider nuclear weapons to be a deterrent factor. But allowing all countries to have nuclear weapons is a path to nowhere. Sooner or later a conflict will break out, and the planet will be destroyed."

Coverage Comparison

TASS, the sole outlet whose reporting on this story is available, presented Lukashenko's interview with Al Arabiya across multiple articles. One report focused on his nuclear disarmament advocacy, while others covered his remarks on the conflict around the Strait of Hormuz. The coverage consistently cites Lukashenko's statements directly, often using his exact words. The framing varies slightly: some reports highlight his optimism about conflict resolution, while others emphasize his criticism of US foreign policy. All are attributed to statements made in the same interview.

Key Claims

  • Lukashenko called for universal nuclear disarmament, including for Russia, the US, China, Israel, India, Pakistan, and other nations.
  • He warned that allowing all countries to have nuclear weapons is "a path to nowhere" that could lead to the destruction of the planet.
  • Lukashenko predicted that the conflict around the Strait of Hormuz would be resolved this year, citing "objective reasons" that would compel the US to cease its military pressure on Iran.
  • He characterized the conflict as primarily a war between Israel and Iran, with the US becoming involved due to its "myopic approach" and the policies of certain senior US officials.
  • Lukashenko described the US decision to involve itself as a "fatal mistake," stating that the US could not be dragged into the conflict against its will.

Perspectives

Lukashenko's Viewpoint

Lukashenko's remarks, as carried by TASS, present a consistent perspective: he advocates for nuclear disarmament, warns of the dangers of proliferation, and criticizes US involvement in the Middle East. He believes the conflict is a war between Israel and Iran, with the US bearing responsibility due to its policies. He expresses optimism that the conflict can be resolved by year's end, citing US pressure to de-escalate.