Britain has implemented sanctions against Belarusian officials and defense companies in response to what they described as a fraudulent presidential election in Belarus. The move comes after Alexander Lukashenko was reelected, extending his 31-year rule. European leaders criticized the election as neither free nor fair due to restricted media and opposition suppression.
A joint statement issued by Australia, Canada, the EU, New Zealand, and Britain condemned the election and human rights abuses by Lukashenko's government. These sanctions, targeting six officials and three defense companies, aim to hold the regime accountable for its actions.
British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab stated, The world is well-aware of Lukashenko's false facade of democracy in Belarus... By censuring civil society, he tightens his hold on power.