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Lukashenka Says Maidan Impossible In His Country


Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenka
Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenka
MINSK -- President Alyaksandr Lukashenka said the tumultuous events in neighboring Ukraine cannot be repeated in Belarus.

Talking to the Belarusian Army leadership in Minsk on February 23, Lukashenka said "there will be no Maidan" in Belarus.

He said "our sacred duty is to prevent disorder and provide safety to our citizens."

After laying flowers at the Victory Monument in Minsk, Lukashenka warned that any attempt to attack Belarusian law enforcement officers will be "responded to instantly."

Lukashenka also called for Ukraine's territorial integrity to remain intact.

Last week, the three-month standoff between pro-European protesters and the government of Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych reached a decisive point after dozens of protesters were shot dead by security forces.

Yanukovych was ousted by a vote in parliament on February 22.

He is now wanted on charges of mass murder.

His current whereabouts are unknown.
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