Belarus’ leader vows the country won’t become part of Russia

The president of Belarus says the country will never become part of another state, even a “brotherly” one like Russia.

Alexander Lukashenko’s statement comes before his talks this weekend with Russian President Vladimir Putin to improve economic ties.

Lukashenko told Belarus’ parliament on Thursday that he wouldn’t sign any documents that could harm the ex-Soviet republic’s interests and added that any union with Russia would be formed on equal terms.

“What other terms (could there be)? Annexation, takeover, seizure? No. The times are different, and no one will talk to Belarusians in this manner. We just wouldn’t allow it,” Lukashenko said, rejecting speculation that Russia could incorporate Belarus.