Washington, Minsk plan 'grand bargain' for political prisoners, sanctions relief

The United States is reportedly working on a significant agreement with Belarus, under which the country would release many political prisoners in exchange for the easing of sanctions on its banks and potash exports. This development follows a meeting between Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Christopher Smith and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, marking the first high-level U.S. diplomatic engagement with Belarus in five years. Smith described the release of three political prisoners as a 'huge victory' and a potential step towards a broader 'grand bargain' aimed at reducing Belarus's dependence on Russia. Sources indicated that Smith received assurances from Lukashenko regarding a reduction in political repression. The U.S. imposed sanctions on Belarus in 2021 due to its controversial presidential election and subsequent crackdown on opposition. The ongoing negotiations highlight a possible shift in U.S. policy towards engaging with regimes previously viewed with skepticism due to human rights violations.