"Vladimir Makei, 64, the Belarusian foreign minister, has died. It is said that he may have been poisoned," wrote the adviser to the Ukrainian Interior Ministry Anton Gerashchenko, casting doubt on the unexpected death.
"Makei has been named as a possible successor to Lukashenko. He was one of the few not under Russian influence - Gerashchenko still writes on Twitter - Rumors say this could be a hint for Lukashenko".
Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko sent his condolences to the family and friends of Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei, whose sudden death was announced today.
This was reported by the BelTa agency, adding that condolences were also received from ministries and departments, organizations and citizens both in Belarus and from abroad.