US lifts some trade sanctions on Belarus potash exports

The US will lift some trade sanctions on Belarus, specifically on potash exports. This move signals a potential improvement in relations between Washington and the isolated nation. The announcement was made by U.S. special envoy John Coale following meetings with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko. Belarus, a close ally of Russia, has faced Western sanctions for years due to human rights crackdowns and its role in the Ukraine invasion. These discussions also covered Venezuela and Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The U.S. envoy described the talks as productive, aiming to normalize relations and move from initial steps to more confident engagement.