Protests in Belarus against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, at least 545 people detained, Investigative Committee opens criminal cases

February 28, BPN. Protests against the Russian invasion of Ukraine took place on February 27 in different regions of Belarus. The rallies coincided with the main day of voting in the referendum on amendments to the Constitution, designed to further strengthen the power of Aliaksandr Lukašenka.

About 30 people marched in the Uschod residential district in Minsk, shouting “No to War.” The same slogan was heard near schools where polling stations are located.

Yesterday, Belarusian democratic leader Sviatlana Cichanoŭskaja urged her fellow citizens to go to vote and to “actively protest against the war” at 2 pm.

“For a long time, I didn’t know how to start this appeal. How can you demand bold actions from people who have been living in fear for a year and a half? The war we were dragged into began two days ago. But until now, Belarusians have not stated publicly that they are against it, they have not shown it to Ukrainians by their actions. Do I have the right to ask you for action? Maybe not. But I won’t forgive myself if I don’t try,” Cichanoŭskaja said.

According to human rights defenders, at least 545 people were detained.

The Investigative Committee announced the opening of criminal cases “for gross violations of public order, resistance to law enforcement and calls for such actions” (Article 342 of the Criminal Code).

“At present, calls to commit actions that grossly violate public order, to organize mass unsanctioned actions and actions aimed at disrupting the referendum currently held in the country are published in extremist Telegram channels and in various information resources,” reads the press release.

More than 10 organizers who “called for extremist actions” were reportedly detained. The Investigative Committee has been working with internal affairs authorities “all over the country to identify other active participants in group actions that grossly violate public order.”

In the evening, a group of citizens gathered near the General Staff of the Armed Forces to protest against the participation of the Belarusian army in the war against Ukraine. Drivers greeted them by honking their car horns.