Based on his rhetoric, it seems that Lukashenko still lives in a world of fantasy, believing he has the abilities to overcome such daunting domestic and international obstacles. But these recent trends suggest that even his followers might be preparing for a life beyond their fearful leader. We can expect more and more people to gather on Belarusian streets and squares to protest against a man who has violated basic principles and isolated their country. Even if it still takes sacrifices, the time is coming when the people of Belarus will freely clap at public spaces and welcome their true leaders.
I have no doubt that Belarus is set for unrest. But I don't think that who Belarussians believe are their "true leaders" will have any effect on who takes over. If there is unrest, Russia will return and push their border west. As far as the Russians are concerned, Belarus' true leaders live in Moscow.
The only question is whether Medvedev or Putin will claim the restoration to win their power struggle.
