Ukrainian MPs suggest declaring Belarus an aggressor

June 19, BPN. Lawmakers in Kyiv have tabled a resolution to recognize Belarus as an aggressor state, arguing that Russia launches attacks against Ukraine from the neighbor’s territory.

According to the Verkhovna Rada website, 25 MPs suggested filing a relevant appeal with the United Nations, European Parliament, NATO and other organizations last week.

MP Yaroslav Yurchyshyn wrote on Telegram that “we need this step in order to hold the Belarusian regime accountable and make it pay reparations to Ukraine in the future.”

He acknowledged Belarusians’ role in resisting the Russian invasion, but argued that Belarus as a state should account for the crimes committed in its territory.

In August 2022, Ukrainian lawmakers suggested designating Belarus as a state sponsor of terrorism. There have been no reports of parliament passing that bill.