Ditator Lukashenko allows police to use combat weapons on protesters

During the last protest day, demonstrators cheered “Fashists”, as they physically crashed into security forces personnel who responded with firearms, according to some data and videos circulated in social media.

The Belarus Interior Ministry later confirmed that police had used firearms and tear gas to disperse an unauthorized rally.

“protests, which have moved mainly to Minsk, have become organised and extremely radical,” said the Interior Ministry.

“In this direction, interior ministry employees and internal troops will not leave the streets and, if necessary, use special equipment and military weapons”, she further announced.

Tens of thousands of Belarusers have demonstrated every weekend since the August 9th elections, in which Lukashenko was declared winner.

His opponents say the vote was manipulated -- an accusation denied by Lukashenko, who has been in power for 26 years -- and has now turned to Russia for financial support and others to retain power.

Monday's clashes occurred after thousands of people took part in a “ming of pensioners” in the capital city of Minsk.

Protesters cheered” Lukashenko Ik” and waved white flags with a red tape, a symbol of Belarusian opposition.

On Sunday, when 713 people were arrested for participating in mass protests, security forces used water and rubber sticks to disperse crowds seeking new presidential elections.

European Union foreign ministers agreed on Monday to sanction Lucashenko and other senior officials, following manipulated elections and worsening police violence against protesters.

Lukashenko was not on the previous list of EU sanctions, agreed on October 2nd, aimed at 40 names.