Political Scientist: Lukashenka’s Paranoia Is Limitless

Why did Lukashenka decide to ban UAVs in Belarus?

Lukashenka signed a decree On State Registration and Operation of Civil Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. The document introduces a ban on the import, storage, circulation, operation and production of drones for individuals.

What is the reason for this ban? Charter97.org asked Belarusian political scientist Anatol Kotau about this:

– There are several reasons. We can say that there are not even reasons, but conclusions that can be drawn from this. Conclusion number one is that Lukashenka is afraid of drones and considers this a real threat to his own life. Conclusion number two is that Belarusian air defence at all levels (from the S-300 and S-400 systems to the vaunted anti-drone guns) cannot cope with drones. That is, it is a combination of paranoia and helplessness.

– The head of Ukrainian intelligence, Budanov, said that the Russians still believe that the attack on the Pskov military airfield on August 30, which resulted in the destruction and damage of four Il-76 transport aircraft, was carried out by drones that penetrated unnoticed after crossing Belarus. Could the Kremlin hint to Lukashenka that it would be better if there were no drones in Belarus?

– They could have hinted, but it absolutely does not affect the situation from a military point of view, from the point of view of the combat use of this weapon. Because the drone, which will be launched from the territory of Ukraine and which may once again make a way along the borderline of Belarus and Russia, will not ask Belarusian border guards for permission.

In fact, this decision in no way solves the problem of the security of a specific individual, I mean Lukashenka’s safety. Because what will be used will not be imported legally, one way or another. But what can be imported legally does not pose a great danger. It’s just a breaking butterfly on the wheel. Almost the same, Belarusians can be prohibited from importing multiple-launch rocket systems or cruise missiles.

– And how far can Lukashenka’s paranoia go with such bans?

– Let’s recall the classic, the Cipollino by Gianni Rodari, about the introduction of an air tax, a ban on breathing and other things that could cause potential damage. There are no boundaries to paranoia and absurd methods of dealing with it, but in general, it can be treated with medication. However, the wrong means are used.

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