In a statement to Podyom, Konstantin Zatulin, the First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on CIS Affairs, Eurasian Integration and Citizens’ Relations, reported that Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has fallen ill. The deputy stressed that the Belarusian leader was aware of his condition but did not reveal a diagnosis. He added that there is no serious threat to Lukashenko’s health.
According to Zatulin, there is nothing mysterious or alarming involved, and it is not a case of COVID-19. He noted that only one person in the president’s circle became ill, and Lukashenko himself was able to participate in the Victory Parade in Moscow and later attend events in Minsk on the same day.
“He likely needs some rest, that’s all,” the deputy asserted during the interview.
On May 14, reports circulated that Lukashenko had missed the Day of the Flag, Emblem and Anthem ceremony and had not appeared at official events for several days. Journalists suggested the president might have contracted a virus after attending events in Moscow on May 9. Additional sources within Lukashenko’s circle reportedly indicated that several others were sick with influenza. The press service maintained that “the president is working with documents.” Earlier remarks attributed to Lukashenko advised drinking vodka and taking baths as a preventive measure against viruses, which sparked further discussion.