The future of science, domestic ammunition, and a surprise visit to the training ground. President's weekly summary
February 16, 2026
The working schedule of the President of Belarus is always very eventful. Alexander Lukashenko holds meetings and working sessions on the most pressing issues of the country's development, regularly visits regions, makes foreign visits, and receives foreign guests himself, communicates with journalists, signs decrees and laws. And even when there are no public events, it does not mean that the head of state is not working. However, even during his leisure time, whether it's a hockey practice or chopping wood, Alexander Lukashenko finds an occasion for another assignment. As he likes to say, one must always proceed from life.
Two events involving the Head of State last week were dedicated to strengthening defense capabilities. At the Palace of Independence, the production of service ammunition was discussed, and then at a training ground near Borisov, Alexander Lukashenko personally checked the combat readiness of the Armed Forces. Another important topic of the week was the future of Belarusian science. The President was presented with a draft decree on improving scientific activities. Not everything in the document satisfied Alexander Lukashenko, but overall it was supported and will be finalized. In the evening of February 8, Alexander Lukashenko had a phone conversation with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. The main topic was the upcoming meeting of the Supreme State Council of the Union State. It also became known during the week that the President of Belarus received an invitation from the American side to participate in the first meeting of leaders within the framework of the Peace Council. However, Alexander Lukashenko's schedule for this period is already planned, and there are certain logistical difficulties on the route to Washington. Therefore, Belarus will be represented at this event by the Minister of Foreign Affairs. The President signed a decree on ensuring the payment of wages and remuneration. The document concerns additional measures to protect workers from non-payment under contract agreements.