Defying a security services crackdown, tens of thousands of protesters demanding that Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko step down engulfed the center of Minsk once again.
This time on the occasion of the now 66-year old leader’s birthday on Sunday, tens of thousands were seen marching on the presidential residence.
Riot police, armored vehicles, and even tanks were seen defending Lukashenko’s residence. Military tanks and personnel carriers were seen pouring into the area, based on activist footage on the ground.
Multiple correspondents observing the protests said tanks were en route to protect the residence.
Specifically Belarusian military BMP-2 Infantry Fighting Vehicles were spotted rolling down highways, making their way toward Independence Palace.