Lukashenko meets Trump representative John Cole in Minsk and pardons 14 foreign citizens

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko recently held a five-hour meeting with John Cole, a representative of U.S. President Donald Trump, in Minsk.

Lukashenko praised Trump's contributions, stating, "He has stopped many conflicts. I say this as a historian and as a president who has served for a long time: no president of the United States of America has made so many and such efforts to bring peace to the planet." The Belarusian leader’s comments reflect a recognition of Trump’s diplomatic efforts, particularly in reducing global tensions.

During the meeting, Cole delivered a letter from President Trump to Lukashenko, which included warm wishes for the Belarusian leader's health and well-being. The letter read, “Melania joins me in sending our best wishes on your birthday. We look forward with hope to the coming year. We pray for your health and well-being, as well as for continued progress in achieving our shared goals.”

In a separate move, Lukashenko has pardoned 14 foreign nationals convicted of various crimes, including espionage and involvement in extremist activities, in Belarus. This gesture was made following requests from US and other international leaders. Among those pardoned were six Lithuanians, two Latvians, two Poles, two Germans, one French citizen, and one British citizen. The decision is being seen as a humanitarian gesture aimed at fostering goodwill in the context of ongoing international relations.

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