A Belarusian law enforcement operation led to the detention of a man who was live broadcasting from Machulishchi airport near Minsk, a development reported by the state TV channel ONT. The incident has intensified scrutiny of the security posture surrounding the airport, while drawing attention to how real-time livestreaming intersects with protest activity and the government’s responses. Authorities emphasized that the broadcast persisted for a substantial period, illustrating the way on-the-ground events can feed into online coverage and shape public perception during moments of demonstrative action.
As described by the channel, Dmitry Mostovoy—identified as a participant in protest actions—had proposed sharing information with one of the Telegram channels. The suggestion appeared to be framed as a link to external sources and was discussed during the broadcast as part of broader protest logistics. The report notes that the channel’s leadership presented the move as a strategy to broadcast the message beyond the confines of the airport site, thereby extending reach and potential influence.
From archival records from the period, it is evident that the individual maintained continuous online transmissions from the airport for roughly two weeks at the close of January into early February. Journalists confirmed that security authorities had gained control of the Telegram channel’s chatbot, a detail underscoring how automated tools can be used in information campaigns, and highlighting the monitoring efforts that typically accompany such activities.
Mostovoy was captured while receiving funds and a newly acquired webcam intended for use at a concealed forest location near Minsk. This sequence of events points to a coordinated plan to sustain remote coverage from unconventional vantage points, potentially widening the distribution of any associated messaging and documentation as events unfolded in real time.
Administrators of the Telegram channel publicly praised Mostovoy’s efforts, characterizing his work as a contribution to information operations tied to Ukrainian intelligence. The public statement, issued through the channel, reflects a broader narrative often seen in cross-border information actions where channels are mobilized to influence perceptions beyond Belarusian borders and to complicate the political discourse surrounding the situation.
Mostovoy remains in custody as investigations continue. Authorities have opened two separate criminal cases against him, citing charges such as treason to the state and aiding extremist activities. The cases illustrate the formal legal framework applied to individuals connected with protest-related broadcasting and the transfer of material deemed harmful to national security by the authorities, underscoring the seriousness with which the state treats media-enabled protest coverage in sensitive areas.
President Alexander Lukashenko, speaking to the nation and the National Assembly, acknowledged the detention of approximately 30 individuals tied to the Machulishchi incident as part of a broader address on security and public order. The remarks linked the arrests to concerns about organized actions that could threaten stability, and they highlighted the government’s intent to protect the capital region and surrounding areas. The speech, widely reported by major outlets, reflected a government narrative aimed at portraying the events as part of a concerted effort to safeguard state institutions while remaining vigilant against online influence operations that could shape public opinion across borders.