Belarus expels Czech diplomat and also warns Poland

The diplomatic dispute between Belarus, Czechia, and Poland has escalated.

The Belarusian Foreign Ministry announced the expulsion of a Czech diplomat and the summoning of a Polish representative after both countries accused Minsk of espionage and expelled its representatives.

Poland also arrested a suspected Belarusian spy.

This is a further escalation of tense relations that have been ongoing since 2020, when the West imposed sanctions on Belarus after the crackdown on post-election protests.

Alexander Lukashenko's regime has been isolated for many years, but continues to maintain close ties with Moscow, as demonstrated by recent joint military exercises with Russian troops.

The Belarusian authorities said the steps taken by the Czechia and Poland were the result of “long-standing prejudices” against the country.

(reuters, red)