The European Union (EU) has imposed sanctions on Belarussian President Alexander Lukashenko and 14 other officials on Friday over what is called their role in cracking down on protesters.

Iran PressEurope: The sanctions are based on a report by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) alleging fraud in the Belarusian presidential election, which paved the way for a travel ban and confiscation of their belongings.

European citizens and companies are also barred from conducting any financial or commercial transactions with these individuals.

Earlier, EU foreign ministers agreed to impose sanctions on Belarus and its president.

Following the presidential election in Belarus, tens of thousands of President Alexander Lukashenko opponents have staged protests in recent weeks in Minsk and other Belarusian cities.

Opposition groups call for a fair and just election.

European interference in Belarus' internal affairs comes at a time when Moscow is fully supportive of its ally, Belarus.