Lukashenko: True sovereignty is impossible without well-armed, loyal military

The head of state noted that the ceremony honoring military academy graduates and officers promoted to the rank of general is traditionally held in early July, a timing that perfectly complements the Independence Day celebrations. “This connection is highly symbolic,” the president said.

“Especially now, only a country that has a strong, well-equipped army, loyal to its people and the state, and staffed with true professionals, can be truly sovereign,” the Belarusian leader stated.

Aleksandr Lukashenko emphasized that for many years, Belarus has been building, developing, and strengthening its Armed Forces – the primary guarantor of independence and territorial integrity.

“The deployment of the Oreshnik mobile missile system and tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus has become a serious factor of strategic deterrence, capable of cooling down hotheads,” the president emphasized. “This weaponry significantly boosts our defensive capabilities.”

“We are not brandishing these issues, nor are we raising them to intimidate anyone. But you must understand that these weapons are not just military surplus that was dumped in Belarus. You understand better than I do what some weapons are designed for. And those hotheads must calm down,” the head of state continued.

At the same time, the president sees no reason to rest on one’s laurels. On the contrary, an immense amount of work lies ahead, as made evident by the outcomes of the recent combat readiness inspection.

“Each of you, especially those who have received the rank of general, has a considerable knowledge and experience under your belt, which our country badly needs today. All graduates will be leading military units as early as tomorrow and will be engaged in improving the forms and methods of maintaining and deploying military units according to their designated purpose,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said as he addressed the participants of the event.

Addressing the generals, the president emphasized: “You are those whom people perceive in a special way. In our country, it is not easy to attain a military rank of this level. This is not only an honor and respect, but also the highest responsibility and accountability. Remember, people have entrusted us with the most precious thing they have – their peaceful present and future. People are counting on us. On our energy and initiative, responsibility, professionalism, resilience, and courage.”

“Yes, we do not have a huge army. But you win with ability, not with numbers, and you know this better than I do. The one who has the ability wins. Therefore, our army must know how to fight, overcoming all kinds of difficulties. What needs to be done for this has been laid out,” the head of state noted. “The most important thing: where there is an officer, there is an army. Without officers, there will be no army.”

Aleksandr Lukashenko noted that the army that actually fights becomes the most powerful and effective. However, for Belarus, such a method of improving its armed forces is unacceptable.

“We have one country in the world that is constantly at war – the United States. We do not need this, and it does not suit us. Therefore, let us use the experience we have. This applies first and foremost to you, the officers and generals,” the head of state said.

“These are challenging times. We are men. We must protect not only our country but our families, our people, our loved ones. Their eyes are on us. We must do all we can so that their trust is not misplaced and so that the people never have to question whether they are feeding us in vain,” the president added.

Aleksandr Lukashenko extended his heartfelt congratulations to all those present on their successful graduation from military academies and promotion to the rank of general, wishing them success in life and a strong home front.