Clara Ferreira Marques: Europe must take a generous, prudent approach to Belarus

After 26 years, Alexander Lukashenko’s days are numbered. Europe can help his country make a peaceful transition to democracy

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, second right, smiles as he talks with employees of the Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant in Minsk on Monday. Picture: Andrei Stasevich/BelTA Pool Photo via AP

After 26 years at the helm, Alexander Lukashenko’s days are numbered. European prudence can help accelerate his demise.

Protests of unprecedented scale have filled the streets of Belarus since the president claimed an implausible landslide re-election just over a week ago.