Trump: respects Lukashenko

A firm statement by US President Donald Trump on Belarus aired on February 27, 2026, from the South Lawn of the White House. Before departing for Texas, journalists asked questions about the possible restoration of US-Belarus relations. Trump responded that 'I know her very well' and 'their leader is someone I greatly respect,' emphasizing having 'very good' ties with Belarus. In his answers, he mentioned that he plans to restore relations with Belarus.

Context

Since the 1990s, there has been a tense situation between the US and Belarus due to sanctions and disagreements over foreign policy.