Dear Ukrainians, dear friends.
Four years ago, treacherous Russia attacked Ukraine. For four years—Russian missiles and drones have been hitting homes, hospitals, and schools. And it has already been eleven years—since people began dying because Russia decided—it is allowed to do anything.
It is terrifying just to think that war has become a daily occurrence. But it is impossible to get used to it. To get used to the images of destroyed cities. To the news of those killed in another horrific attack. That children, instead of schools or kindergartens, are forced to hide in bomb shelters.
We, Belarusians, admire Ukrainian courage. How you support one another, how you defend your country—at the front and in the rear. How Ukrainian volunteers work, how doctors save lives under shelling, how energy workers restore light after strikes. How Ukrainians strive every day to live, to love, to cherish one another—and maintain their humanity.
We, Belarusians, know what Russia is. We know its imperial appetites. We know what tyranny is. We understand that today Ukraine is fighting not only for itself, but for all of us—including for a free Belarus.
That is exactly why four years ago, and even earlier—many Belarusians went as volunteers to fight for Ukraine. Many paid with the most precious thing—their lives. Even today, on this day, many Belarusians—are on the front line or in Russian captivity—and we pray for their lives and for the victory of Ukraine.
We also pray for Belarusian political prisoners: hundreds of them are in prisons for solidarity with Ukraine, for trying to stop Russian equipment, or for spreading the truth about the war.
After the start of the full-scale invasion, many Belarusians remained in Ukraine—despite the shelling, despite problems with documents—also to help. The Belarusian community of Ukraine—volunteers, raises funds, helps veterans. And the Belarusian diaspora around the world—donates money to the Ukrainian army and to humanitarian programs.
The fate of Belarus also depends on the outcome of the war. If Ukraine is strong and Russia is weak—this will open the way for the liberation of Belarus as well. Because today our country is a hostage of two dictators; it is being turned into a Russian military base and an assembly shop for the Russian army. They are deploying nuclear weapons and the "Oreshnik." All of this is being done against the will of Belarusians. But our people, I am certain, will yet have their say.
We, Belarusians, are on the side of Ukraine, not the aggressor. We—just like Ukraine—are part of Europe, not the "Russian world." And together—we can achieve freedom and peace for our peoples. Together—we can achieve justice and hold the guilty accountable.
Thank you to the Ukrainian people. Thank you to the Belarusian warriors, volunteers, and everyone who supports Ukraine in this difficult time. Thank you for the solidarity, for the courage. Together we will overcome everything.
Glory to Ukraine! Long live Belarus!