Lukashenko sweeps to victory in Belarus after stage-managed election

In a recent presidential election in Belarus, incumbent Alexander Lukashenko secured a decisive victory, garnering 86.8% of the vote. The high turnout of nearly 87% was reportedly achieved despite a lack of credible opposition candidates, who were either barred from participating or chose not to challenge the regime. Observers have characterized the election as a sham, with German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas describing it as a "bitter day for all those who long for freedom and democracy." Lukashenko's victory will extend his rule over Belarus for another six years, solidifying his three-decade grip on power.