VIDEO: Troops Begin Dispersing Crowds in Minsk, Clashes Occur Between Protesters and Security Forces in Brest

Troops from the internal army have started dispersing protesters gathered near the Pushkinskaya metro station in Minsk. According to РИА Новости, arrests have also taken place in this area of the city. Meanwhile, the number of people gathered in the city center is increasing. Security forces are attempting to prevent large groups from assembling in one location. The soldiers are armed with rifles that fire rubber bullets and flashbang grenades, but have not yet used them.

The metro station, along with nearby shops and cafes, is closed. Earlier reports indicated that units of the internal troops and OMON were approaching the central district of the city.

In addition to Minsk, protests are also occurring in the city of Brest, where clashes have begun between protesters and OMON special forces in the city center. Footage posted online shows one of the opposition members jumping over barricades, in response to which security forces are using batons.

It should be noted that protests in Belarus began following the presidential elections held on August 9, where dissatisfied citizens and opposition supporters took to the streets. According to the election results, incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko was declared the winner, having received over 80 percent of the votes, while opposition candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya garnered 10 percent.