Head Of Verkhovna Rada Committee Explains Why Kyiv Does Not Recognize Tsikhanouskaya's ‘Cabinet’

The Kalinouski regiment can become the only legitimate Belarusian body.

Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, member of the Servant of the People faction Oleksandr Merezhko explained to the Ukrainian service of Radio Liberty why Ukraine does not recognize Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya and her “united transitional cabinet”.

“Tikhanovskaya's position regarding Russia and Putin is not clear enough. She seems to be afraid to call a spade a spade. For example, to clearly state that Russia is a terrorist country, an aggressor and an enemy of the Belarusian people. In addition, there are some dubious people in her entourage. She also made statements related to Ukraine that caused misunderstanding in Ukraine,” Merezhko said, without calling names.

The MP added that “a legitimate Belarusian body with which Kyiv could conduct a dialogue” could be the Kalinouski regiment, which is fighting as part of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to Merezhko, the regiment, by its actions at the front, proved that it adheres to a pro-Ukrainian position, and has authority among the Belarusian opposition.

In August, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya announced the creation of a “joint transitional cabinet” of Belarus. She recently suggested that Ukraine establish diplomatic relations with her “transitional cabinet”.