Putin lies to Belarus about intentions

 ISW:

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The Kremlin has also attempted to conceal Putin’s likely original intentions to pressure Lukashenko into further concessions regarding integration with the Russian Federation. Putin notably stated that “Russia is not interested in absorbing anyone,” when referring to Belarus.[6] This statement followed Lukashenko’s reiteration of Belarusian independence and full sovereignty on December 16 and appears to be a defensive reaction to Lukashenko’s comments.[7] Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov also stated that Putin did not go to Belarus to convince Lukashenko to join the war, noting that such speculations are unfounded and “foolish.”[8] Peskov had avidly denied Putin’s intention to invade Ukraine days before the start of offensive operation in a similar fashion, to be sure, but this denial is more likely an attempt to cover up Putin’s desperation to involve Lukashenko in the war and apparent failure—again—to do so.
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What Putin said was clearly a lie.  He is trying to absorb Ukraine right now and would like then move to absorb Belarus if his Ukraine operation ever becomes successful.  The lie is revealed when Putin said 'Russia is not interested in absorbing anyone."  He said this at a time when his stated intention is absorbing Ukraine.  Lukashenko is wise to be wary of Putin who wants to reconstitute the Soviet Union.