Why are EU leaders holding an emergency summit on Belarus?

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EU Leaders Convene Summit Amidst Belarus Election Crisis

European Union leaders convened an emergency video summit to address the escalating crisis in Belarus, following President Alexander Lukashenko's disputed re-election. The summit aims to formulate a unified response to the contested election results and the subsequent violent suppression of peaceful protests. Opposition figures have urged the EU to unequivocally reject the election outcome.
Disputed Election Results Spark Widespread Protests

The crisis in Belarus was triggered by the August 9th presidential election, in which President Alexander Lukashenko claimed victory with 80 per cent of the vote. These results have been widely disputed, leading to the largest demonstrations in the country since its independence following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Peaceful protests calling for Lukashenko's resignation have been met with brutal crackdowns by security services.
EU Considers New Sanctions Against Belarusian Officials

In response to the unfolding situation, the European Union is actively developing a new round of sanctions. These measures are intended to target individuals implicated in allegedly manipulating the election results and those responsible for the violent repression of protesters. The EU's diplomatic chief, Josep Borrell, has previously condemned the violence and called for the release of political prisoners and respect for human rights.
Calls for Dialogue and Non-Recognition of Election Results

Several EU leaders have publicly stated their inability to accept the election results. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte emphasised the need for "resolute and concerted" action, asserting that any solution must reflect the will of the Belarusian people. Opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who fled to neighbouring Lithuania after claiming victory herself, has directly appealed to EU leaders not to recognise what she describes as fraudulent elections. Close allies of Lukashenko, including Russia, have been urged by France, Germany, and EU Council President Charles Michel to facilitate dialogue and promote a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

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Why are EU leaders holding an emergency summit on Belarus?

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