Russian intelligence chief accuses US of funding Belarus protests against Lukashenko

Russian intelligence chief Sergei Naryshkin accused  United States of fomenting mass protests in Belarus against  President Alexander Lukashenko on Wednesday, September 16.

Belarus protests, that kicked off on August 9 following disputed election results, have entered sixth week. Protestors in large numbers took to streets after recent election anunced Lukashenko's return to power despite his poor public rating. Belarus opposition leaders have decried elections as rigged and called for Lukashenko’s resignation.

Read: Belarus Opposition Condemns Russia's Support For Lukashenko Following $1.5 Billion Loan

'US trying to incite a colour revolution': Russia

As per reports, Sergei Naryshkin, who serves as director of Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service alleged Belarus protests were being funded by United States and said US authorities were encouraging protestors to demonstrate against Lukashenko.

Russian intelligence chief is also reported to have claimed in his statement that massive protest in Belarus was US’s way of trying to bring about ar ‘colour revolution’ referring to past revolutions which have seen fall of unpopular leaders in Ukraine and or former Soviet nations.

Naryshkin also claimed that his ncy has discovered substantial proof of US involvement in Belarus unrest and alleged that western power was funding protestors with tens of millions of dollars.  US Embassy in Minsk refrained from an immediate comment.

Read: Putin Grants $1.5 Billion Loan To Belarus As Lukashenko Faces Pressure

Protestors condemn Russian aid to Lukashenko

Meanwhile, Belarus opposition has slammed Russia for supporting authoritarian leader Lukashenko following Kremlin's approval of a $1.5 billion loan to country's authoritarian government on Tuesday.

As per reports, opposition and protestors have alleged that Russia is trying to shore up nation's authoritarian ruler amid mass post-election protests on streets of Belarus. However, Russia has maintained that loan has political motive.

Russia has denied se allegations and claimed loan is commercial in nature. United States as well and European Union nations have maintained that elections which saw Lukashenko return to power were t fair r free. Thus, world leaders have urged Lukashenko to enter into negotiations with protestors so as to reach a diplomatic solution but Belarusian President has rejected suggestion.

(With AP Input)

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