Lukashenko Allows Belarusian Forces to Use Weapons During Rallies

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has signed a law that establishes the "conditions and limits for the use of physical force, special means, weapons, military and special equipment." Thus, the internal affairs bodies of the republic are now granted the right to use military and special equipment in suppressing "mass disturbances." They are also empowered to prohibit citizens from filming, photographing, or recording the ongoing events.

The main provisions of the law will enter into force one month after its official publication.