In a significant diplomatic shift, former President Donald Trump dispatched his envoy Keith Kellogg to Belarus for discussions with President Aleksandr G. Lukashenko, underscoring a desire to strengthen ties with one of Russia's closest allies. This visit is notable as it marks the first meeting between a senior U.S. official and Lukashenko in over five years, contrasting sharply with the Biden administration's approach of isolating Belarus through sanctions.
During the intensive talks held in Minsk, which spanned over six hours, Kellogg and his team discussed a range of topics including existing American and European sanctions, and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. The discussions were fruitful, reportedly leading to the release of 14 political prisoners, among them Sergei Tikhanovsky, a prominent dissident and spouse of exiled opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, who were subsequently transported to Lithuania.
John Coale, Kellogg’s deputy, expressed that the U.S.'s robust stance facilitated the release, suggesting that improved relations could yield constructive outcomes for international diplomacy. Despite the positive developments, the Biden administration's sanctions on Belarus remain in place, indicating that while engagement may increase, the U.S. is cautious not to too swiftly reward Lukashenko's regime.
The conversations reportedly covered not only regional conflicts but also Belarus's geopolitical ties with larger powers like Russia and China, revealing a complex interplay of interests in a region marked by historical tensions.
