Trump's unexpected diplomacy: US set to ease Belarus sanctions
Donald Trump surprises once more. After a conversation with Vladimir Putin, it was reported that an American delegation was set to visit Lukashenko. According to media reports, the United States plans to ease sanctions on Belarus.
The American delegation, including Christopher W. Smith, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Eastern European Affairs, visited Belarus and met with Alexander Lukashenko. This marked the first such meeting in five years. The discussions were intended to address the potential easing of sanctions.
Experts assess Trump's move
According to ISW, any reduction in sanctions against Belarus would positively impact the Russian economy, as Moscow has integrated the economies of both countries for decades within the Union State framework.
Russia utilises Belarus to circumvent sanctions, and the two economies are so interconnected that Russian military efforts might directly benefit from the easing of American restrictions against Belarus, we read.
Smith announced on Thursday in Vilnius, during a meeting with Western diplomats, that Belarus is prepared to release numerous political prisoners. In exchange, Lukashenko expects a reduction in the sanctions imposed on Belarusian banks and the export of potash, a crucial fertiliser component in which Belarus is a major producer.
The "New York Times" noted that the meeting with Lukashenko occurred just a day after a phone call between US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
Usually isolated by the West, Belarus remains silent about the visit. Experts suggest that easing sanctions could weaken Russia's influence in the region. Vladimir Putin and numerous Russian officials may be concerned about this closer relationship.
The meeting between the Americans and Lukashenko took place in Minsk. Following the talks, three Belarusian political prisoners were released: journalist Andrej Kuzniechyk, activist Alena Maushuk, and an American citizen whose name was not disclosed. All those released were handed over to the American side at the Lithuanian border.
