Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko spoke to the nation and the National Assembly, emphasizing the importance of personal preparedness and the readiness of citizens to defend the country. He asserted that women should learn basic self-defense capabilities, including handling firearms, to ensure a basic level of protection for themselves and their families. He described training in firearms, specifically mentioning hand-held weapons including pistols and automatic firearms, as a practical necessity rather than a symbolic gesture.
The president also called on the public to actively safeguard their homes, families, and close networks. He underscored the responsibility people have to respond decisively to any threat to national sovereignty and security, signaling a firm stance on protecting the country from encroachments.
In his remarks, Lukashenko reaffirmed Minsk’s commitment to maintaining sovereignty while highlighting the willingness to deploy all available means, should the republic face aggression. He indicated that the authorities are prepared to consider a range of measures to preserve security, including strategic capabilities that could deter potential threats.
The address, delivered on a Friday, provided an overview of Minsk’s position on several domestic and regional issues. It outlined the political direction set by the administration and clarified the leadership’s approach to ensuring stability and national continuity in the face of evolving challenges.
Throughout the speech, Lukashenko stressed unity and resilience, urging citizens to stay vigilant and ready to contribute to the nation’s defense. The address reflected a broader policy discourse on security, sovereignty, and the role of ordinary citizens in safeguarding the state’s future, while outlining the government’s expectations for public support and cooperation in pursuing strategic objectives.