The Moscow Times - 03.24.2003

 

The Moscow Times

Lukashenko Likens Iraq War to Nazi Crimes

(AP) MINSK, Belarus -- Belarussian President Alexander Lukashenko on Friday likened the U.S. war in Iraq to Nazi war crimes but later called for improving strained ties with Washington. 

Speaking on the anniversary of the 1943 Nazi massacre in the Belarussian village of Khatyn, whose residents were burned alive, Lukashenko drew parallels with what he dubbed a "cynical" U.S. aggression against Iraq. 

"The events in Khatyn show the essence of any aggressor," Lukashenko said in a statement broadcast throughout the day on state television. "The lessons of history teach certain people nothing." 

He went on to condemn the U.S. military assault in Iraq. 

But Lukashenko struck a different note later in the day during the naming of a new ambassador to the United States, saying he wanted "to normalize relations with the U.S." 

"Relations with the U.S. can't be built on a confrontational basis," he said, announcing the appointment of Foreign Minister Mikhail Khastou as his new ambassador to the U.S. and Mexico. 

Siargei Martynau, a 50-year-old career diplomat who has served in the United States, Belgium and the UN, will replace Khastou.