U. S. Tries to Improve Ties with Belarus, Focuses on Freeing Detainees

The United States is trying to improve its relationship with Belarus, a country known for its strict government. President Donald Trump has chosen John Coale to be the special envoy to Belarus. Coale's job will be to negotiate the release of more prisoners held in Belarus. Belarus has a long history of tense relations with the U. S. The U. S. closed its embassy in Belarus in 2022. This happened after Belarus allowed Russia to use its land to send troops into Ukraine. Despite this, Trump has been working to improve ties. He has sent several groups to talk with Belarusian leaders. In September, Belarus released 52 prisoners after Trump asked for their freedom. Trump had earlier requested the release of 1, 400 people he called hostages. Coale has already helped free 100 people and is now working to free 50 more. Trump thanked Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko for considering the release of more prisoners. Lukashenko has been in power for over 30 years. He is a close friend of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The recent prisoner releases are seen as a step to improve relations with the U. S. after years of sanctions and isolation. The U. S. is hopeful that these efforts will lead to better ties with Belarus. However, the situation remains complex due to Belarus's close relationship with Russia and its role in the Ukraine conflict.