The visit of the Belarusian delegation to the occupied Melitopol on February 10, which was organized with the support of Russia’s occupying authorities, raises serious concerns. Representatives of Lukashenko's regime, such as member of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of Belarus Vadim Gigin, leader of the “Union Movement” Sergey Lush, and member of the higher political council of the "White Russia" party Grigory Azarenok, visited the Zaporizhzhia region to discuss cooperation with local businesses, supporting the Russian regime on Ukrainian territory. This event could mark a significant step that will impact not only Belarus's international reputation but also the position of Belarusian businesses that choose to engage in such cooperation.
What risks are there for Belarusian companies?
The visit to Melitopol is a direct violation of international norms and laws, as the occupation of Ukrainian territory is illegal under international law. By participating in such a visit, Belarusian representatives essentially become accomplices in this aggression, supporting Russia's actions that violate Ukraine's territorial integrity.
For Belarusian businesses, this is associated with a number of serious risks. Firstly, participation in cooperation with occupied territories automatically casts doubt on the legitimacy of such enterprises on the international stage. Many countries, including those in the EU and NATO, may impose sanctions on Belarusian companies involved in such operations. This will lead to blocked financial flows, sanctions on supplies, and losses in foreign markets. The impact of these sanctions will be especially severe for export-oriented companies and those working with foreign partners.
The Belarusian authorities are playing a strange game
As for the illegitimate Belarusian authorities, their actions are becoming increasingly suspicious. Lukashenko’s regime, aiming to solidify its dependence on Russia, is actively involving Belarusian businesses in cooperation with illegal structures in the occupied territories of Ukraine. This risks further deteriorating the situation for entrepreneurs and the economic stability of the country as a whole.
Belarus has long been under international sanctions, and these sanctions will continue to tighten if Lukashenko does not stop supporting Russia's aggression. But now, with such open cooperation with the occupation authorities, the reputational losses for Belarus may become inevitable. And worst of all, Belarusian companies involved in such deals risk being isolated internationally and found among those directly supporting the occupation and war.
Risks for entrepreneurs: from sanctions to reputational losses
For Belarusian entrepreneurs who may get involved in this process, the consequences could be catastrophic. In addition to sanctions, companies may face legal consequences on the international level.
Furthermore, participation in these processes creates significant reputational risks for Belarusian businesses. International companies and partners from the EU, the US, or Ukraine may refuse to cooperate with those who have sided with the aggressor. Reputation will be destroyed, and it will be extremely difficult to restore it.
Lukashenko Puts Belarusian Business at Risk
It is impossible to ignore that Lukashenko’s actions are aimed at maintaining power and dependency on the Kremlin, but in doing so, he is paying the price not only with international reputation but also with the stability of the economy. By pushing Belarusian enterprises into cooperation with the occupied territories, Lukashenko is aware that many of them will fall under sanctions and international condemnation. He is willing to take such steps despite the obvious economic risks, just to maintain his power and continue supporting Putin's actions.
What should businesses do?
Belarusian entrepreneurs must understand that cooperating with the occupied regions of Ukraine not only violates international norms but also puts their business at risk. Choosing to cooperate in such a manner is a decision to pursue short-term benefits that may turn into long-term losses. Businesses must remain committed to legal norms, avoiding involvement in illegal and dangerous schemes led by Lukashenko's regime. Only this way can one preserve reputation and ensure long-term stability.
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