Trump thanks Lukashenko for releasing political prisoners

US President Donald Trump has thanked Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko on Truth Social for releasing 250 more political prisoners. In his words, this brings the total number of those released since last year to more than 500.

He described the move as generous and stressed that it was an important signal towards easing tensions. He also indicated that he would like to make personal contact, saying that he was ‘eagerly’ looking forward to a meeting with the Belarusian leader.

The possibility of a diplomatic détente between the US and Belarus has been increasingly mentioned following talks between a US delegation and officials in Minsk. Washington is also reportedly considering easing sanctions on the Belarusian financial sector or selected companies.

Lukashenko has previously indicated a willingness to visit the United States, which until recently would have seemed unlikely.

(pir)