In a move aimed at redefining U.S. diplomatic efforts, President Trump dispatched a senior envoy to Belarus, signaling a distinct pivot away from previous policies. With the release of at least 14 political prisoners and escalating tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East, Trump’s administration is attempting to court President Aleksandr G. Lukashenko, a key ally of Russia.
Trump Moves Closer to Belarus, Engaging With Lukashenko
Trump Moves Closer to Belarus, Engaging With Lukashenko
In an unexpected shift in strategy, President Trump names a special envoy to strengthen ties with Belarus amid political prisoner releases.
Keith Kellogg, retired lieutenant general and Trump’s envoy for Russia and Ukraine, arrived in Minsk over the weekend. His discussions with Lukashenko marked the first engagement with the Belarusian leader by a high-ranking official in over five years, suggesting changes in U.S. foreign policy from the previous administration’s approach that favored isolation.
While no immediate progress on sanctions was announced, Deputy John Coale underscored that the discussions led to the significant release of political detainees, including notable opposition figure Sergei Tikhanovsky. The released prisoners are now in Lithuania following their freedom, which was highlighted as evidence of America’s growing influence.
Lukashenko's press secretary reported that the lengthy talks spanned a variety of critical topics, including the current sanctions against Belarus, regional conflicts, and the geopolitical ramifications of Belarus's alignment with Russia and China. As the situation in Ukraine remains sensitive, this engagement could signal a new chapter in U.S.-Belarus relations.
While no immediate progress on sanctions was announced, Deputy John Coale underscored that the discussions led to the significant release of political detainees, including notable opposition figure Sergei Tikhanovsky. The released prisoners are now in Lithuania following their freedom, which was highlighted as evidence of America’s growing influence.
Lukashenko's press secretary reported that the lengthy talks spanned a variety of critical topics, including the current sanctions against Belarus, regional conflicts, and the geopolitical ramifications of Belarus's alignment with Russia and China. As the situation in Ukraine remains sensitive, this engagement could signal a new chapter in U.S.-Belarus relations.
