Tensions are rife between the West and Belarus after Minsk diverted the flight path of a Lithuania bound Ryanair passenger plane, forcing it to land, resulting in the apprehension of opposition blogger Raman Pratasevich.

The UK's relationship with Belarus has all but collapsed after Transport Secretary Grant Shapps instructed British airlines to avoid Belarusian airspace.

Belarus criticizes the “groundless” decision to strip the country of its role as co-host of this year’s ice hockey world championships.

London and Minsk have engaged in tit for tat expulsion of diplomats as tensions escalate between the two powers.

Belarus Interior Ministry says security forces could use live fire against "radical" opposition protesters.

Belarus has been in turmoil since Lukashenko won the August 9 presidential election.

Aleksander Lukashenko takes the oath of office as president of Belarus in an official ceremony in the capital city, Minsk.