Uncertainty looms over Belarus as Lukashenko's health and future remain unclear.

The possibility of Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko's departure from power offers hope and opportunity, as well as concern and risk. The United States and its European allies should be prepared to support new elections with proper international monitoring. Putin will do all he can to rig a post-Lukashenko period in Belarus in his favor. Lukashenko's departure would end nearly three decades of repressive rule and open the possibility for a more democratic future for Belarus. The West can and should help bring about an end to the brutal Lukashenka regime, striking a blow against authoritarianism and Putinism and a victory, at long last, for Ukraine, for democracy, and for the long-suffering people of Belarus.