The sudden death of Belarus’ former ambassador to Germany, Denis Sidorenko, at the age of 48 has shocked the diplomatic community. Sidorenko, who had been serving in Germany since 2016, was recalled by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko earlier this year and was not given a new position. Reports from independent media suggest that Sidorenko died by suicide after experiencing severe psychological stress from repeated interrogations by Belarus’ security services.
Belarusian Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei’s unexpected death in November 2022 also raised suspicions of foul play. Independent media initially reported it as a heart attack, but later claimed he had taken his own life. Both deaths hint at the deep-rooted authoritarianism in Belarus, led by Lukashenko since 1994. The country’s support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has put it at odds with the West, resulting in severe sanctions.
These tragic events shed light on the oppressive regime in Belarus and the challenges faced by those who dare to oppose it. The diplomatic community mourns the loss of Sidorenko, a respected and talented diplomat who met a tragic end.