Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has labeled Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky a "Fuehrer," accusing him of attempting to draw Belarus into the conflict. The remarks came after Zelensky issued an ultimatum to Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko, demanding the removal of equipment used for Russian drone attacks against Ukraine within a week.
Lavrov stated that Zelensky, whom he described as being "plucked from an amateur theater group," was playing the role of a "Fuehrer" and that his image had become "contagious." He suggested Zelensky's ultimatum was aimed at expanding the geography of hostilities. Russian state-controlled media reported these comments, which echo long-standing Russian propaganda narratives comparing Ukraine to Nazi Germany to justify its invasion.
Belarus has been a key staging ground for Russia's war against Ukraine since the February 2022 invasion, serving as an entry point for troops and a launchpad for ongoing air assaults. Russia has also used Belarusian stockpiles to replenish its military losses. Recently, Zelensky accused Lukashenko of facilitating Russian attacks by installing signal repeaters for drones operating over Belarus.
Adding to the tensions, Belarus' democratic opposition recently presented Zelensky with a document indicating that Lukashenko might be preparing his country for war. Zelensky's ultimatum to Lukashenko is set to expire on June 26.
