DISINFO: The West is involved in the detention of Russian citizens in Minsk
SUMMARY
Let’s see who benefits from it [the detention of Russian citizens and the accusations of preparing to disrupt the presidential elections in Belarus]. This is killing two birds with one stone. Firstly, it discredits President Lukashenko. Secondly, it drives a huge wedge between Russia and Belarus. Who benefits from this? This is only beneficial to the pro-Western opposition and the forces inside the republic, and, of course, to our “dear” international partners [the US and the EU].
RESPONSE
The recurring pro-Kremlin propaganda narratives about the Western influence on Belarus, ungrounded claims about the democratic Belarusian opposition and the West's aims to disrupt Belarusian-Russian relations. There is zero evidence to suggest any Western involvement in the arrest of Russian private military soldiers in Belarus. In a joint statement by the Missions of the U.S., the EU and the UK, they urge the Belarusian authorities "to take the measures necessary to hold a safe, peaceful, free and fair election and to ensure fundamental freedoms." See earlier disinformation cases alleging that the pro-Western Belarusian opposition prepares 'kill lists' and genocide, the US global "Anaconda" strategy is to limit the living space of geopolitical opponents and that the West's objective is to encircle Russia entirely thanks to the "Anaconda ring" and "Great Turan" doctrines.