Lukashenko, Macron discuss Ukraine, European security, possible deployment of nukes in Belarus

MINSK. Feb 27 (Interfax) - Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and French President Emmanuel Macron have discussed Europe's future, the Ukrainian conflict, Belarusian-Russian relations and the possible deployment of nuclear weapons in Belarus.

"All issues discussed during the conversation that lasted about 80 minutes dealt with the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. The sides discussed the position of Belarus and its involvement in the conflict. A major part of the conversation was dedicated to the future of Europe and the role of Belarus in the world order. They also discussed relations between Belarus and Russia," the First Man's Pool channel on Telegram close to the Belarusian presidential press service said.

"Another issue dealt with arms, including nuclear weapons and their possible deployment in Belarus. Responding this question, the Belarusian president said, 'Fake,' noting that 'if the people of Belarus is not strangled, not only nuclear weapons but also conventional weapons are out of question,'" the channel said.

The parties discussed possible negotiations to resolve the Ukrainian crisis, it said. Lukashenko said that negotiations are possible at any time and in any place of Belarus, it said.

The Belarussian and French presidents agreed to continue contacts in the near future.