Belarusian military expert explains Lukashenko's defense strategy against Western 'intervention' and Russian influence

An independent military observer, leading Belarusian expert on defense and the military-industrial complex, Alexander Alesin, shared his opinions with Espreso TV.

"I think the Kremlin is very uncomfortable with this. This is initially a game between Russia and China. Both countries are permanent members of the UN Security Council. Lukashenko is playing on their existing contradictions and suspicions," he said.

According to Alesin, the Belarusian leader believes that if he has such a powerful ally as China, he will be insured against the absorption of Belarus by Russia.

"I think this is a purposeful policy, despite the fact that he is considered a vassal of Russia. He pursues a very subtle policy and runs between the raindrops. In addition, Lukashenko believes that if the West imposes serious sanctions against him and wants to conduct a military intervention, which requires a UN Security Council sanction, Russia and China will ‘cover him up’," the expert concluded.

• On August 16, Li Shangfu, a member of the Central Military Commission and China’s Minister of Defense, officially arrived in the capital of Belarus, Minsk.

• On August 17, self-proclaimed President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko, after meeting with Chinese Defense Minister Li Shangfu, said that the countries have the same vision of the world order and are absolute supporters of the inviolability of borders.