World News

Belarus fears risk of trapping citizens with ‘the beast’: opposition leader on August 29, 2023 at 10:00 am

Published

3 years ago

August 29, 2023

They fear that Baltic states tightening security along the border with Belarus, amid increasing threats of a spillover from Moscow’s war, will trap its population under the dictatorship of long-time Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko.

Poland has plans to move 10,000 troops to the border with Belarus, while Lithuania last week closed two border crossings. The U.S. this month warned American citizens in Belarus to leave the country immediately, saying more closures along the borders with Lithuania, Latvia and Poland are expected.

Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, the Belarusian democratic leader exiled in Vilnius, is warning that Belarus should not be left as a “consolation prize” for Russian President Vladimir Putin if Europe and the West seal off the country amid the fight for Ukraine.

“There must always be opportunity for Belarusian people to flee repression,” she said in an exclusive interview with The Hill from her offices in the Lithuanian capital last week.

“Just imagine if you close all the borders for people, it’s like you have keys for this prison and you are leaving Belarusians alone with this dictator, with this beast.”

Lukashenko has been a key Putin ally since the start of the war, offering a staging ground before the invasion and more recently welcoming nuclear weapons and Russian mercenaries into the country.

After the death of Wagner Group leader Yevgeny Prigozhin, Lukashenko has said its forces are welcome to remain in the country, following a deal he brokered after a short-lived mutiny in Moscow two months ago.

Lukashenko, like Putin, has resorted to nuclear saber-rattling to intimidate Ukraine’s allies, suggesting all available tools will be used in response to Western aggression — though Belarus does not have nuclear weapons.

“If aggression against our country is launched from the side of Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, we will immediately respond with everything we have,” Lukashenko said in an interview earlier this month.

“NATO stands behind Poland, Lithuania, Latvia. We certainly understand that the forces are incomparable. But we will deliver an unacceptable strike against them and they will receive unacceptable harm, damage. It is what our security concept is based on.”

Tsikhanouskaya said Lukashenko has sacrificed “Belarusian sovereignty, Belarusian safety,” to do Putin’s bidding.

She was hopeful that Prigozhin’s death in a plane crash outside Moscow last week might be a positive development for Belarus.

“Wagner mercenaries were completely dependent on his leadership,” she said in a text after our interview. “Hopefully, it would weaken or kill Wagner organization, and it won’t be able to impose such threat to our country and our neighbors.”

Prighozhin’s “march for justice” in June set off a flurry of activity among Tsikhanouskaya and her supporters, as it exposed the vulnerability of Putin.

“The fate of Lukashenka, to a huge extent depends on the Kremlin, and any weakening of the Kremlin gives us an opportunity to make some concrete steps,” she said.

“We collected like, emergency coalition — where main stakeholders [met] just to synchronize our actions,” she said of that day’s events. They mobilized social media campaigns preparing Belarusians for instructions on labor strikes or acts of sabotage.

“But of course the situation with Prigozhin ended unexpectedly, the same as it started, and I think at that moment Lukashenko gained some political [clout],” she said of the Belarusian leader’s role as an intermediary.

With thousands of Wagner forces reportedly arriving in Belarus in the intervening weeks, its NATO neighbors are prioritizing their security over refuge for the Belarusian people.

Poland’s Interior Minister on Monday warned that Warsaw and the Baltic states are prepared to close the border with Belarus if “a critical incident occurs.”

Earlier this month, Poland accused Belarus of violating its airspace during a military exercise. And on Aug. 14, two Russians were arrested for disseminating Wagner recruiting information and propaganda in Warsaw and Krakow.

Lithuanian lawmakers are reportedly proposing to vote on legislation in September to impose more travel and residency restrictions on Belarusian nationals.

The law sends a political signal that Belarusian opposition exiles in the country are becoming less welcome, but Lithuania’s security establishment says it’s driven by a need to stay vigilant against security threats from Minsk and Moscow.

Last week, the Vilnius-based, Belarusian opposition activist Olga Karach was reportedly denied asylum in the country over what Lithuania’s State Security Department (VSD) alleged are ties to Russia’s intelligence services.

Karach has reportedly denied the charges and can stay in Lithuania because the VSD acknowledges she faces threats to her life if she returns to Belarus.

And earlier this month, Lithuania declared more than 1,000 Russian and Belarusian citizens living in the country as threats to national security and stripped them of their permanent residency status.

Tsikhanouskaya called the proposed legislation “a challenge,” but she called Lithuania “our best partner” and said she’s been reassured by the Lithuanian government that support for the Belarusian people remains strong.

“We are trying to find the best solution for this law, we are going to meet with parliamentarians to explain our position,” she said.

Belarus’s democratic opposition in exile is strained by limited resources three years since they launched an unprecedented challenge to Lukashenko’s fraudulent claim of election victory in August 2020.

Tsikhanouskaya was Lukashenko’s main challenger for president in his, at that time, 26-year reign.

Originally a stand-in for her imprisoned husband, Tsikhanouskaya was considered the likely winner of that election even as Lukashenko claimed 80 percent of the vote.

Massive protests broke out after the contested results were announced, followed by an even more intensive crackdown on dissent.

Tsikhanouskaya was forced to flee Belarus for Lithuania over the threat of arrest. In March, a court in Belarus sentenced her, in absentia, to 15 years in prison on charges of conspiring to overthrow the government.

Her husband remains in prison, one of an estimated 1,500 political prisoners in Belarus and with many subject to isolation, torture, and cruel and inhumane treatment, according to the Belarusian human rights organization Viasna.

Tsikhanouskaya concedes the democratic movement she leads has likely lost focus on nurturing their relationship with Lithuania in lieu of courting bigger friends.

President Biden’s hosting of Tsikhanouskaya in 2021 “was a very warm meeting,” she said, even as she explained she was intimidated by the power of the president of the United States.

He understood the situation in Belarus, she said, and told her that America supports the movement for democratic change in the country.

“Maybe Belarus is not priority for U.S.A. because of course with China, Russia, all these big countries, but still we feel a lot of attention to our cause,” she said, emphasizing the intertwined fates of Belarus and Ukraine.

In the same way, she is concerned America’s partisan politics over Ukraine could have blowback on Belarus.

“I’ve heard that there are Republicans who are against supporting Ukraine. But it is important to understand that not helping the countries who are fighting with the aggression. … It’s like cancer, if you don’t stop this disease at the root, it will spread further and further,” she said.

“Belarus is part of our original crisis, yes we have different context of course with Ukraine, but we are fighting with the same enemy, the imperialistic ambitions of Russia, it’s very aggressive in Ukraine, it’s like creeping in Belarus.”

VILNIUS, Lithuania — Belarus’s democratic opposition in exile are increasingly worried about the consequences of their country’s growing isolation due to its alliance with Russia in its war on Ukraine. They fear that Baltic states tightening security along the border with Belarus, amid increasing threats of a spillover from Moscow’s war, will trap its population…

Business

GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY SUMMIT RETURNS FOR ITS 5TH EDITION AT THE BRITISH PARLIAMENT – HOUSE OF LORDS, PALACE OF WESTMINSTER

Published

4 weeks ago

May 16, 2026

Bolanle Media Staff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Theme: “People, Planet, and Profit in the Age of AI and Innovation”

London, United Kingdom — The Global Sustainability Summit (GSS) is officially back for its landmark 5th Edition, continuing its legacy as one of the leading international platforms driving sustainable development, climate action, ethical investment, innovation, and global collaboration.

Convened annually at the prestigious British Parliament, House of Lords, Palace of Westminster, by Ambassador Canon Chinenem Otto, the Summit has, over the last four years, successfully fostered international dialogue and partnerships that have contributed to the advancement of global sustainability goals, the establishment of sustainability-focused ministries, departments and policy structures across national and subnational governments, and the attraction of major investors into sustainable development projects, corporations and emerging economies.

This year’s summit, themed “People, Planet, and Profit in the Age of AI and Innovation,” will explore how emerging technologies, responsible leadership, sustainable finance, innovation, and global partnerships can shape a more inclusive, resilient and environmentally conscious future.

The 5th Edition promises to be the most impactful yet, bringing together world leaders, policymakers, diplomats, investors, academics, innovators, climate experts and youth leaders from across the globe to discuss actionable solutions toward achieving a sustainable and equitable future.

Among the distinguished speakers, delegates and honorees already lined up for the Summit are:

• His Excellency Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq — Executive Governor of Kwara State, Nigeria and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum

• His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Otu — Executive Governor of Cross River State, Nigeria

• Ambassador Patricia Espinosa Cantellano — Former Executive Secretary of UN Climate Change (UNFCCC) and Former Foreign Minister of Mexico

• Lord Marvin Rees, Baron Rees of Easton OBE — Member of the House of Lords, United Kingdom

• Hon. Neema K. Lugangira — Secretary-General of Women Political Leaders (WPL), Brussels and Former Member of Parliament

• Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah — President of the Republic of Namibia

• His Excellency Nangolo Mbumba — Former President of Namibia

• Former President of Tanzania

• Her Excellency Ambassador Professor Olufolake AbdulRazaq — First Lady of Kwara State, Nigeria and Chairperson of Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum

• Your Excellency Dr. Dikko Umar Radda, PhD, CON — Executive Governor of Katsina State and Chairman of the Northwest Governors Forum, Nigeria

• Hon. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma — Governor of Khomas Region, Namibia

• H.E. Mr. Veiccoh Nghiwete — High Commissioner of the Republic of Namibia to the United Kingdom

• Her Excellency Ms. Macenje “Che Che” Mazoka — High Commissioner of Zambia to the United Kingdom

• Ms. Danielle Newman — Partner Lead, ICT, World Economic Forum

• Leanne Elliott Young — Co-founder, Institute of Digital Fashion & CommuneEast

• Ms. Chloe Russell — Producer & Presenter, Art, Science and Nature

• Professor Marie-Claire Cordonier Segger — University of Cambridge & University of Waterloo

• Dr. Alexandra R. Harrington — IUCN World Commission on Environmental Law (WCEL)

• Professor Payam Akhavan — Massey College, University of Toronto

• Mr. Mallai C. E. Sathya — President, Dravida Vetri Kazhagam and International Movement for Tamil Culture Asia

The Summit will feature high-level panel discussions, strategic investment conversations, sustainability awards, policy dialogues, innovation showcases, youth engagement sessions and international networking opportunities focused on climate resilience, ethical financing, food-water-energy sustainability, circular economy, artificial intelligence, diplomacy and sustainable development.

Speaking ahead of the Summit, Convener Ambassador Canon Chinenem Otto noted:

“As the world rapidly evolves through artificial intelligence and technological innovation, we must ensure that sustainability remains people-centered, environmentally responsible and economically inclusive. The Global Sustainability Summit continues to serve as a bridge connecting governments, institutions, innovators and investors to accelerate practical sustainability solutions globally. Our fifth edition is not only a celebration of progress made over the years, but also a renewed call for global collaboration and actionable impact toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and Net Zero ambitions.”

The Global Sustainability Summit continues to position itself as a catalyst for transformative partnerships and sustainable global progress, reinforcing the urgent need for collective action toward a more resilient and sustainable future.

More announcements regarding additional speakers, partners and summit activities will be unveiled in the coming weeks.

News

US May Completely Cut Income Tax Due to Tariff Revenue

Published

6 months ago

November 30, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

President Donald Trump says the United States might one day get rid of federal income tax because of money the government collects from tariffs on imported goods. Tariffs are extra taxes the U.S. puts on products that come from other countries.

What Trump Is Saying

Trump has said that tariff money could become so large that it might allow the government to cut income taxes “almost completely.” He has also talked about possibly phasing out income tax over the next few years if tariff money keeps going up.

How Taxes Work Now

Right now, the federal government gets much more money from income taxes than from tariffs. Income taxes bring in trillions of dollars each year, while tariffs bring in only a small part of that total. Because of this gap, experts say tariffs would need to grow by many times to replace income tax money.

Questions From Experts

Many economists and tax experts doubt that tariffs alone could pay for the whole federal budget. They warn that very high tariffs could make many imported goods more expensive for shoppers in the United States. This could hit lower- and middle‑income families hardest, because they spend a big share of their money on everyday items.

What Congress Must Do

The president can change some tariffs, but only Congress can change or end the federal income tax. That means any real plan to remove income tax would need new laws passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate. So far, there is no detailed law or full budget plan on this idea.

What It Means Right Now

For now, Trump’s comments are a proposal, not a change in the law. People and businesses still have to pay federal income tax under the current rules. The debate over using tariffs instead of income taxes is likely to continue among lawmakers, experts, and voters.

News

Epstein Files to Be Declassified After Trump Order

Published

7 months ago

November 20, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

Former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order directing federal agencies to declassify all government files related to Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier whose death in 2019 continues to fuel controversy and speculation.

The order, signed Wednesday at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, instructs the FBI, Department of Justice, and intelligence agencies to release documents detailing Epstein’s network, finances, and alleged connections to high-profile figures. Trump described the move as “a step toward transparency and public trust,” promising that no names would be shielded from scrutiny.

“This information belongs to the American people,” Trump said in a televised statement. “For too long, powerful interests have tried to bury the truth. That ends now.”

U.S. intelligence officials confirmed that preparations for the release are already underway. According to sources familiar with the process, the first batch of documents is expected to be made public within the next 30 days, with additional releases scheduled over several months.

Reactions poured in across the political spectrum. Supporters praised the decision as a bold act of accountability, while critics alleged it was politically motivated, timed to draw attention during a volatile election season. Civil rights advocates, meanwhile, emphasized caution, warning that some records could expose private victims or ongoing legal matters.

The Epstein case, which implicated figures in politics, business, and entertainment, remains one of the most talked-about scandals of the past decade. Epstein’s connections to influential individuals—including politicians, royals, and executives—have long sparked speculation about the extent of his operations and who may have been involved.

Former federal prosecutor Lauren Fields said the release could mark a turning point in public discourse surrounding government transparency. “Regardless of political stance, this declassification has the potential to reshape how Americans view power and accountability,” Fields noted.

Officials say redactions may still occur to protect sensitive intelligence or personal information, but the intent is a near-complete disclosure. For years, critics of the government’s handling of Epstein’s case have accused agencies of concealing evidence or shielding elites from exposure. Trump’s order promises to change that narrative.

As anticipation builds, journalists, legal analysts, and online commentators are preparing for what could be one of the most consequential information releases in recent history.