Speculation over Lukashenko's health raises concerns in Belarus

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko's first public appearance in six days has raised questions about his health and the future of his three-decade-long rule. Social media users noted how stilted and uncomfortable he looked, and a bandage could be seen wrapped on his left hand. The impact of his having a serious illness or suddenly departing would be felt not just in Belarus, but also Russia and the war in Ukraine. Putin has kept Lukashenko in power, especially as the Belarusian leader resorted to a brutal crackdown in which activists and politicians were jailed.