Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has imposed sanctions on Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko.
The decision followed a proposal by Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council and was formalized through a presidential decree published on the official website of the Ukrainian presidency.
Scope of the Sanctions
The sanctions include 17 restrictive measures, such as:
- Asset freezes
- Travel bans
- Suspension of trade
- Prohibition of financial transactions
- Ban on technology transfers
According to Zelensky, writing on his Telegram channel, the measures were taken because Lukashenko is allegedly “facilitating the killing of Ukrainians.”
Allegations Regarding Belarus’ Role
Zelensky stated that in the second half of 2025, Russia deployed drone control repeater systems on Belarusian territory, enhancing its ability to strike northern regions of Ukraine — from Kyiv to Volyn.
He added that certain attacks, including those targeting energy infrastructure and railway facilities, would not have been possible without Belarus’ assistance.
Furthermore, Zelensky claimed that more than 3,000 Belarusian companies supply Russia, including components used in missile production. He also alleged that Belarus has stationed the Oreshnik ballistic missile on its territory and that, since 2025 and continuing into 2026, Belarusian enterprises have been supplying Russia with critical units and mechanical components for the weapon system.
Broader Diplomatic Context
The move comes shortly after Zelensky’s first official meeting with Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya on January 25 in Vilnius. During that meeting, they discussed sanctions policy and coordination with European and American partners to hold Lukashenko and members of his regime accountable.
According to Ukrainian media reports, authorities in Kyiv are also discussing with the Belarusian opposition the possibility of opening a criminal case against Lukashenko, in an effort to prevent him from easing his international isolation — particularly amid reports of contacts with the United States.
As of now, Lukashenko has not officially commented on Kyiv’s decision.
