Alexander Lukashenko

Alexander Lukashenko (born 1954) has been the authoritarian president of Belarus since 1994, making him Europe's longest-serving leader, often dubbed "

Europe's last dictator". A former Soviet state farm director, he won power on a populist anti-corruption platform and has maintained control by crushing political dissent, controlling state media, and maintaining close economic and military ties with Russia. 

Key Aspects of His Rule:

• Political Structure: Lukashenko has suppressed pro-democracy movements, particularly following the widely disputed 2020 election. His regime is characterized by authoritarianism, with opposition figures jailed or forced into exile.

• Relationship with Russia: He is a close ally of Vladimir Putin, relying on Russia for economic aid and security. Belarus served as a launchpad for the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, allowing Russian troops to attack from its borders.

• Domestic Policies: He retained many Soviet-era economic structures, preventing mass privatization, and has maintained close ties to Russia while suppressing internal opposition. 

  Atlantic Council +3

He is currently serving his 30th year in power as of 2024, continuing to align Belarus firmly with Russia while facing international sanctions.