Belarus Seeks EU Engagement to End Diplomatic Isolation Amid Sanctions

Belarus, under President Alexander Lukashenko, is actively seeking to break its diplomatic isolation imposed by the EU and Western countries following the 2020 crackdown on protests and its support for Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The country's outreach includes a series of meetings initiated by senior diplomat Yuri Ambrazevich, who has invited European officials for talks aimed at restoring relations and positioning Belarus as a potential participant in peace efforts between Russia and Ukraine. This diplomatic warming coincides with improved ties with the United States under President Donald Trump, which led to the release of over 50 political prisoners and eased sanctions on Belarusian state airline Belavia. While some European diplomats see this as a strategic window to secure sanctions relief, skepticism remains due to Belarus's ongoing military cooperation with Moscow and recent arrests of opposition figures. Opposition leaders urge the EU to maintain sanctions until genuine democratic reforms occur. Overall, Belarus aims to diversify its international partnerships beyond Russia and regain economic and political benefits amid the ongoing regional conflict.