Timelines for Ukrainian settlement, US interference: Lukashenko’s statements

MINSK, October 16. /TASS/. Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said he is convinced that peace in Ukraine will be achieved either this year or next.

He also said that although the United States considers itself invincible, there are higher powers that "can put the high and the mighty in their place."

Peace in Ukraine will be reached this or next year: "This peace will be achieved. If not this year, then next year. I am absolutely sure of that."

"Russia is stronger, sturdier" and "is able to fight for a long time," but "the economic impact is tremendous": "Who can like and want this? Russians understand this, they are ready for peace."

"If Ukrainians do not agree to a peaceful settlement this year, it will be even more difficult for them next year, and eventually it will become impossible."

Belarus wants the conflict in Ukraine to end as soon as possible and is ready to do its best to help achieve that: "Peace is not only possible but necessary. There will be peace; it will be achieved. We would like the war to end next year, or, even better, this year. We are all for it and will do our best in this regard."

"Various factors are affecting both Russia and Ukraine. But these factors are clearly pushing both Ukraine and Russia toward peace, due to the impossibility of continuing such military operations. For these humanitarian and human reasons, peace is needed there. And it will be achieved."

Vladimir Zelensky once promised to remain in office for one presidential term: "Promises should be kept."

Zelensky must hold a presidential election in Ukraine: "He needs to organize an election."

The United States considers itself invincible, but there are higher powers that "can put the high and the mighty in their place": "They are all God-loving and devout … And He [God] sees everything and will give them a very hard smack on the head.". That’s why we need to be more careful here. We don’t know for sure, but there are many forces in nature that can put the high and mighty in their place. We must remember that."

Zelensky has become dependent on the United States and Trump: "Why is he [Trump] dictating [Ukraine what to do]? Because Zelensky depends on the United States and Trump. Well, he [Trump] might not well be doing this but first intelligence sharing and then weapons provision to Ukraine - what is badly needed - will be stopped. And maybe, something else, along with weapons."