Putin set to lose key ally in huge blow as Europe's 'last dictator' to step down

Alexander Lukashenko, often referred to in Western media as Europe's "last dictator" has signalled he isn't planning to run for another presidential term. This will come as a major blow to Vladimir Putin, with the Belarusian leader being the Russian President's main and most vocal ally on the continent.

Speaking to Belarusian state news agency Belta, Lukashenko said he wanted to step down. He also ruled out his son Nijolai stepping in as his successor. He said: "I would very much like a reasonable, normal person to come after me. I even allow that he might pursue a somewhat different policy. Just let him not break anything right away."

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