Lukashenka suddenly flew to Russia to meet Putin

Alexander Lukashenka headed to Russia on June 26 for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The visit had not been announced in advance, making the trip appear sudden.

According to the press services of both leaders, they are expected to discuss bilateral relations and regional developments. No statements to the press are planned after the meeting.

The talks will take place at Putin’s residence in Valdai.

Before Lukashenka's visit to Putin, a major Russian Telegram channel linked to the Kremlin published what was claimed to be a leaked recording of Belarusian Foreign Minister Maxim Ryzhankou discussing a deal between the Lukashenka regime and the United States. The recording appears to be a deepfake; however, it is notable that the Kremlin-linked channel chose to release such a fake precisely ahead of the politicians' meeting.