Lukashenko Urges Russia-Ukraine Compromise as Peace Talks Remain Stalled

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has called for a compromise between Russia and Ukraine to bring an end to the prolonged conflict that has continued for more than four years. In an interview published Monday, the longtime ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin said neither side is likely to achieve a decisive military victory, making negotiations the most realistic path toward lasting peace.

Speaking to Al Arabiya, Lukashenko stated that both Moscow and Kyiv should take advantage of any opportunity to reach a peaceful settlement. According to the Belarusian leader, continued fighting risks further escalation and could worsen the situation across the region. He emphasized that a long-term agreement can only be achieved through mutual concessions and practical compromises.

Lukashenko acknowledged that Russian forces continue to make gradual gains on the battlefield despite strong Ukrainian resistance. However, he noted that both armies are struggling with manpower shortages, describing the lack of personnel as one of the most significant challenges facing the conflict. While he suggested Ukraine faces a more severe shortage, he said Russia is also experiencing difficulties in maintaining troop levels.

Belarus has played a significant role in the war since allowing Russian forces to use its territory during the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The country has also permitted Russia to deploy nuclear weapons within Belarusian borders. Despite these ties, Lukashenko reiterated that Belarusian troops would not directly participate in the conflict and insisted that Ukraine has “nothing to fear” from Belarus.

The Belarusian president dismissed concerns that Belarus could launch new military operations against Ukraine, arguing that such claims are driven by political motives. His comments come as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has warned that Russia could potentially use Belarusian territory for future offensives.

Lukashenko also addressed relations with the United States, saying he would not rule out a future meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. He stressed that any potential talks should extend beyond discussions of human rights and prisoner releases. The remarks follow recent efforts by Belarus to improve relations with Washington, including the release of hundreds of prisoners that human rights organizations have classified as political detainees.

With U.S.-brokered peace negotiations currently stalled and international attention shifting toward tensions in the Middle East, Lukashenko’s latest comments highlight renewed calls for diplomacy and a negotiated resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war.