Lukashenko urged Putin not to doubt his loyalty to Russia.
At his fifth meeting with Vladimir Putin in 2026, Alexander Lukashenko stated that Belarus “sacredly fulfills all agreements,” including on fuel, and assured that both countries “will not be left ‘naked’ without microelectronics.” Chips are needed, among other things, for weapons production.
On August 29, Putin received Lukashenko at his residence in Novo-Ogaryovo near Moscow. This is the autocrats’ fifth meeting this year.
“The fact that we are meeting is not solely our fault. The dynamics of international relations are such that they, among other things, push us to discuss the problems we face,” Lukashenko stated in his speech during the open part of the talks. Lukashenko once again assured the Russian leader of his loyalty:
“Regarding current issues, we are strictly fulfilling all our agreements, ranging from agriculture, food, and fuel. You can be sure that we will overcome all difficulties together, through cooperation. I have already spoken about this more than once, meeting with representatives of Russian businesses and regional and provincial leaders.”
Lukashenko also mentioned microelectronics and “joining forces” with Russia in this sector:
“We have considerable expertise. Recently, Russia’s First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov visited us and toured these enterprises with specialists. We have been developing some form of relationship in this regard. We will certainly not be left ‘naked’ here without these goods. We create absolutely everything we need, together. Tomorrow, we will reach a very high level.
Microchips are essential for the production of weapons, including drones. Investigators from the Belarusian Center for Reconstruction and Development and the Bureau have previously published reports on the supply of microchips from Belarus to Russia. The neighboring country is experiencing an urgent need for microchips due to Western sanctions.
In May of this year, Vladislav Vlasyuk, adviser and commissioner to the Ukrainian president on sanctions policy, reported that components from the Minsk-based Integral plant were being found in Russian missiles.