Lukashenko, despite his authoritarian persona and looming threats of military aggression, including towards neighboring Poland, has been frequently spotted in the company of his white fluffy spitz, Umka, during official duties.
The sight of the Belarusian leader, who has remained in power for nearly three decades through a combination of political savvy and intimidation, discussing serious military strategies with a lapdog has sparked a wave of humor online.
Quoted by state broadcaster Polish Radio, columnist Alyaksandr Klaskouski humorously observes: "Lukashenko has lost his sense of what is appropriate. Surrounded by yes-men, no one's going to point out the incongruity of a fearsome leader cuddling a ball of fluff. The internet has rightly questioned if Belarusian generals are now reporting to Umka."
Previously seen with his son Kola on official occasions, Lukashenko has now seemingly substituted human companionship for canine loyalty. Klaskouski speculates, that "this might just be Lukashenko's way of ensuring some genuine company, someone who's loyal not out of fear or ambition but simple, unadulterated affection."
Umka's rise to fame includes memorable appearances at official events, foreign trips, and even in planting activities, where the fluffball was carried in a sapling basket.
Despite attempts to soften Lukashenko's image through Umka's presence, Klaskouski points out the misjudgment: "Trying to humanize a dictator with a dog might have seemed like a good idea to his advisers, but it's only served as fodder for jokes and memes."
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Source: Polskie Radio, PAP