"Believe me, I'm president not because I really want to be president": Lukashenko

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko stated in an interview with Russian journalist Vladimir Solovyov that he is prepared to cede control if the situation in the country stabilizes. This was reported by TASS.

Specifically, Lukashenko was asked how many more years he plans to lead the country, to which he replied, "Always," if war breaks out or a situation similar to that of the 2020 presidential elections unfolds.

"Believe me, I'm president not because I really want to be president. God forbid that you find yourself in a situation where you are dependent on many circumstances," he said.

Lukashenko emphasized that if the situation stabilizes, the country will clearly determine who will succeed him. He drew parallels with Leonid Brezhnev, the Soviet leader who remained in his high position until his death.

"Now I understand how dependent he was not only on circumstances but also on the people around him who supported him. You are tied to your country, which you have built with your own hands," Lukashenko noted, adding that this is more than just serving the country.