Lukashenko says he and Putin joke about who is the bigger dictator

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said in a speech to youth leaders in Minsk that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin sometimes joke about which of them is the greater dictator. His remarks came during a Sept. 17 event focused on Belarus's future and political succession. Lukashenko, who has led Belarus since 1994, described himself as one of Europe’s longestserving leaders and defended his hold on power. He also dismissed criticism that he is clinging to office, saying he has had enough of governing. The comments also highlighted the close ties between Minsk and Moscow. Belarus has not sent ground troops into the war in Ukraine, but it continues to support Russia strategically, including by allowing military activity from its territory and supplying key components, according to reports cited in the article. Western governments continue to pressure Belarus over human rights concerns and its alignment with Russia, while sanctions remain a major part of the broader dispute with Minsk.