Hearings in Congress: Lukashenko - Washed scum (Video)

The U.S. is trying to influence the situation in Belarus by imposing sanctions and the provision of assistance to the population of the country, said Deputy Assistant U.S. Secretary of State Daniel Russell.
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According to Russell, the presidential vobory December 19, 2010 were held with numerous violations. Lukashenka's regime suppressed peaceful protests against the results of voting, arresting 700 protesters and seven presidential candidates. The political persecution of opponents are still going on, he added.
... He also noted that in the past sanctions against the Lukashenko regime has led to positive results.

Republican Congressman Chris Smith said that Lukashenko continues to ignore calls by the international community to improve the human rights situation in the country. And this is one of the reasons that the U.S. and EU are trying to find new ways to impact on the regime of the Belarusian leader.

Shortly before the elections in Belarus, there was some easing of political pressure on the opposition, and it is hoped that the situation in the country improves, said Chris Smith. ...

... - The U.S. and the EU will not try to appease Lukashenko and try to influence the praises of his regime ...
Republican Congressman and head of the subcommittee, Dan Burton said that Lukashenko's regime not only suppresses the freedom of their own people, but also helps the despots in other countries.
Lukashenko has violated international sanctions against Iran and the continuing economic cooperation with Tehran. Besides, the Belarusian authorities are suspected of selling arms and ammunition to the regime of Muammar Qaddafi in Libya. Finally, there is evidence that Lukashenko has supplied helicopters and weapons to the Ivory Coast to quell the demonstrations, said Burton.
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Director of the American organization ...
... Also, he said, should increase support to civil society and opposition forces, he added.
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