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"High level of popular mobilization across the entire country, partly sparked by authorities’ mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic, means that the protests will not just fizzle out over time." - Oksana Antonenko, Global Fellow, Kennan Institute.

"In the past, the internet was open in #Belarus, despite the routine attacks against independent media. Now, #Lukashenko is borrowing from China’s toolbox, blocking access to websites and online platforms." - @vcharnysh, Professor of Political Science, @MIT

"Russia’s relationship with Belarus has long been close but dysfunctional. The arrest of the Wagner Group operatives and, in recent days, of Russian journalists, has further strained it. It was Lukashenko, not Tikhanovskaya, who criticized #Russia during the election." @Nigelgd1

"The outcome of presidential elections, as well as the arrest of both the Wagnerites & a political strategist with an American passport, indicate that in the end Lukashenko will still focus on Russia not the West or the US specifically." - Oleg Manaev @iiseps @UTKnoxville

"Most probably, strong Western sanctions will resume against Lukashenko’s regime. In this context, it is critical to pay attention to the situation with human rights, civil liberties, and the opposition’s functionality in the country." - @mminakov

"After the incredible brutality of the special force units within the past few nights—where more than 3,000 people have been detained, hundreds injured, and at least one confirmed death—the protest potential is rising even stronger." - @kshmatsina @gmfus

"[Belarus'] dependence [on Russian energy] suggests that the new government will not openly defy Russia, but rather will walk a line that enables international economic development assistance, creating openings for US and European Union influence." - Regina Smyth @IUPOLS

"Western countries will condemn the elections and violence but not intervene materially, leaving Lukashenko’s maneuvering room between Russia and the #West circumscribed. " Amb. Kenneth Yalowitz, Global Fellow, Kennan Institute