STATEMENT BY NED PRICE, SPOKESPERSON U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE NOVEMBER 2, 2022 A free and independent press plays a critical role in promoting democracy and shining a light on developments around the world – whether daunting or hopeful. Journalists are the bedrock of an independent press, providing the public with facts and holding governments to …
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STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN December 14, 2021 The United States condemns today’s politically motivated convictions of Belarusian opposition figures Syarhey Tsikhanouski, Mikalai Statkevich, Radio Liberty journalist Ihar Losik, and others in judicial proceedings that do not conform to the rule of law. Belarusian courts harshly sentenced Mr. Tsikhanouski to 18 years, Mr. Statkevich …
Read More» MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON DECEMBER 2, 2021 The text of the following statement was released by the United States of America, Canada, the European Union and the United Kingdom. Begin Text: Today, in response to the continuing attacks on human rights and fundamental freedoms in Belarus, disregard for international norms and repeated acts of repression, we have …
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STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN DECEMBER 2, 2021 In coordination with international allies and partners, today we are taking additional measures to raise the cost on Alyaksandr Lukashenka and his regime for their ongoing attacks on democracy, human rights, and international norms, and for their brutal repression of Belarusians both inside and outside the …
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Invocation of the Vienna Mechanism on Belarus As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires Courtney Austrian to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 4, 2021 Thank you, Mr. Chair. The United States fully aligns with the joint statement delivered by the United Kingdom. I would also like to add a few words in my national capacity. We remain …
Read More» STATEMENT BY SPECIAL ENVOY FOR BELARUS JULIE D. FISHER Efforts to Hamper U.S. Development Assistance and Public Diplomacy Programs in Belarus On October 20, 2021, the Belarusian authorities informed the United States of new measures designed to impede the functioning of the U.S. Embassy in Minsk by forcing the closure of the Embassy’s Public Diplomacy and USAID offices, including the American Center in Minsk. The Belarusian authorities are forcing the Embassy to terminate …
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The Russian Federation’s Duma Elections U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release September 20, 2021 STATEMENT BY NED PRICE, SPOKESPERSON The September 17-19 Duma elections in the Russian Federation took place under conditions not conducive to free and fair proceedings. The Russian government’s use of laws on “extremist organizations,” “foreign agents,” and “undesirable organizations” severely restricted …
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STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN September 14, 2021 On this International Day of Democracy, we underscore our support for democracy as we strive toward a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable world. The United States places democracy and human rights at the center of our foreign policy; they are essential elements in achieving and sustaining peace and stability …
Read More» STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN September 6, 2021 The Sentencing of Belarusian Opposition Figures Maria Kalesnikava and Maksim Znak The United States condemns the politically motivated conviction and shameful sentencing today of Belarusian opposition figures Maria Kalesnikava and Maksim Znak. Ms. Kalesnikava, a recipient of this year’s International Women of Courage Award, was given …
Read More» Holding the Lukashenka Regime to Account on the Anniversary of the Fraudulent Presidential Belarusian Election PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 9, 2021 On the one-year anniversary of Belarus’s fraudulent presidential election, the United States government has taken decisive action against forty-four individuals and entities in order to hold Alyaksandr Lukashenka and his …
Read More» FACT SHEET: Executive Order Imposing Costs on Alyaksandr Lukashenka and Belarusian Authorities for Ongoing Attacks Against Democratic Freedoms, Human Rights, and International Norms AUGUST 09, 2021 Today, on the anniversary of the fraudulent Belarusian election of August 9, 2020, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. signed an Executive Order (E.O.) imposing further consequences upon Alyaksandr Lukashenka …
Read More» August 9, 2021 Treasury uses new sanctions authority in support of the Belarusian people WASHINGTON — Today, on the one-year anniversary of Belarus’s fraudulent August 9, 2020 presidential election, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned 27 individuals and 17 entities pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13405, as well …
Read More» AUGUST 09, 2021 One year ago today, the people of Belarus sought to make their voices heard and shape their own future through that most basic expression of democracy—an election. Rather than respect the clear will of the Belarusian people, the Lukashenka regime perpetrated election fraud, followed by a brutal campaign of repression to stifle …
Read More» AUGUST 09, 2021 By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (IEEPA), the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.) (NEA), section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952 (8 U.S.C. …
Read More» Statement by NSC Spokesperson Emily Horne on National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s Meeting with Opposition Leader Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya of Belarus THE WHITE HOUSE JULY 20, 2021 National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met today with democratic opposition leader Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya of Belarus. Mr. Sullivan conveyed American support for the people of Belarus and respect for the …
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Office of the Spokesperson July 19, 2021 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Ned Price: Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland and Counselor of the Department Derek Chollet met with Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya, leader of the democratic opposition of Belarus in Washington, D.C. Secretary of State Antony Blinken joined the group for part of the …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 21, 2021 The United States has taken action against dozens of Belarusian individuals and entities in response to last month’s forced diversion of a commercial Ryanair flight between two European Union member states and the politically motivated arrest of journalist Raman Pratasevich and Sofiya Sapega. These …
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On Recent Developments in Belarus As prepared for prepared for delivery by Chargé d’Affaires Courtney Austrian to the Permanent Council, Vienna June 10, 2021 Thank you, Madam Chair. Circumstances in Belarus worsen by the day. The repression and severe abuses against pro-democracy activists, independent media, members of the opposition, and civil society based on politically-motivated …
Read More» Belarus: Joint comments by the Delegation of the European Union to Belarus together with the diplomatic missions of the EU Member States in Belarus and the Embassies of the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Japan on the 8 June 2021 meeting with Belarusian Foreign Minister Makei Today, Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei …
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For Immediate Release Friday, June 4, 2021 Belarus informed the United States yesterday that it is imposing new limits on American diplomatic and technical personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Minsk, effective June 13. Despite an increasingly restrictive environment for U.S. government programming in Belarus, USAID’s partnership with the Belarusian people continues and remains more …
Read More» MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MAY 29, 2021 The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of Austria, Bulgaria, Canada, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Latvia, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. …
Read More» Statement by Press Secretary Jen Psaki on the United States Response to Belarus’s Forced Diversion of Ryanair Flight and Continuing Attack on Fundamental Freedoms MAY 28, 2021 • STATEMENTS AND RELEASES Belarus’s forced diversion of a commercial Ryanair flight under false pretenses, traveling between two member states of the European Union, and the subsequent removal …
Read More» U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson MEDIA NOTE May 27, 2021 G7 Foreign Ministers’ Statement on Belarus The text of the following statement was released by the G7 foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union. Begin Text: …
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On the Forced Landing of Ryanair Flight FR4978 and Unjust Detention of Raman Pratasevich As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires Courtney Austrian to the Special Permanent Council, Vienna May 25, 2021 Thank you, Madam Chair. The United States strongly condemns the forced diversion to Minsk of a flight between two EU member states and NATO Allies …
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PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE MAY 23, 2021 The United States strongly condemns the forced diversion of a flight between two EU member states and the subsequent removal and arrest of journalist Raman Pratasevich in Minsk. We demand his immediate release. This shocking act perpetrated by the Lukashenka regime endangered the lives …
Read More» U.S. Embassy Statement May 18, 2021 The United States condemns the Lukashenka regime’s relentless persecution of independent media outlet Tut.by, its journalists and staff. The raids on Tut.by’s offices as well as the homes of staff members under the guise of a spurious tax-fraud investigation are the latest in a series of punitive actions directed …
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STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN April 19, 2021 Revocation of the Authorization of Belarus General License 2G Due to Human Rights Violations and Abuses The U.S. Department of State fully supports the Department of the Treasury’s announcement today on the revocation of the Belarus-related General License (GL) and implementation of a 45-day wind down …
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Recent Developments in Belarus As delivered by Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Elisabeth Rosenstock-Siller to the Permanent Council, Vienna April 16, 2021 Thank you, Madam Chair. While the Permanent Council paused over recess, unfortunately, repression in Belarus did not. We are particularly concerned by the authorities’ provocative, politically-motivated arrest of members of the Belarusian Polish …
Read More» On March 30, 2021, the State Department released the 2020 country reports on human rights practices. Secretary Blinken (Mar. 30) (Twitter) on the report: “Honored to release the 45th annual Human Rights Report. It demonstrates that human rights, transparency and accountability are at the forefront of U.S. foreign policy. We acknowledge the work ahead and …
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On Recent Developments in Belarus As delivered by Acting Deputy Chief of Mission Elisabeth Rosenstock-Siller to the Permanent Council, Vienna March 25, 2021 Thank you, Madam Chair. I look forward to the day when we will no longer need to raise pressing human rights challenges in Belarus in this chamber, but today is not that …
Read More» March 25, 2021 The Embassy of the United States of America congratulates all Belarusians on the 103rd anniversary of the declaration of the Belarusian People’s Republic of 1918. Though more than a century has passed since the first declaration of statehood, recent events have demonstrated that Belarusians’ struggle for freedom and democracy persists. Currently, Belarusians of …
Read More» March 24, 2021 The United States welcomes and supports the establishment of the International Accountability Platform for Belarus (IAPB), an independent and impartial mechanism to collect and preserve evidence of serious human rights violations and abuses surrounding the 2020 presidential election in Belarus and the Belarusian authorities’ subsequent violent suppression of protests. The aim of the …
Read More» MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MARCH 22, 2021 Counselor of the Department Derek Chollet spoke today with Belarusian Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei about the situation in Belarus and the current state of U.S.-Belarus bilateral relations. Counselor Chollet made clear the need for the immediate release of all political prisoners in Belarus without exception, specifically …
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USOSCE: Call for New Dialogue to Lead to New Presidential Election in Belarus As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires Courtney Austrian to the Permanent Council, Vienna March 18, 2021 Thank you, Madam Chair. As President Biden stated, U.S. diplomacy should be rooted in America’s most cherished democratic values: defending freedom, championing opportunity, respecting human rights and the rule …
Read More» March 12, 2021 The United States expresses solidarity with Poland and condemns the expulsion of three diplomatic and consular officials from the Polish Consulates General in Brest and Hrodna. Belarus should uphold its international commitments and obligations on the treatment of diplomats per the Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations.
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USOSCE: Role of Women in Belarus’s Fight for Democracy As delivery by Chargé d’Affaires Courtney Austrian to the Permanent Council, Vienna March 11, 2021 Thank you, Madam Chair. Women have long been at the forefront of civil and political rights movements across the globe. As Secretary Blinken said earlier this week, “it is often women who lead the …
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46th General Session of the UN Human Rights Council Item 2 Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on Belarus U.S. Statement As Delivered by Mark Cassayre The United States remains deeply troubled by the Belarusian government’s crackdown on peaceful protesters, including reports of torture, continued detention of over 200 political prisoners, and refusal to engage in genuine dialogue …
Read More» STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN February 18, 2021 The United States remains alarmed by the Lukashenka regime’s continuing violent crackdown on peaceful protesters, pro-democracy activists, and journalists. The February 16 raids on human rights organization Vyasna, the Belarusian Association of Journalists, and independent trade union workers, as well as the February 18 sentencing …
Read More» February 18, 2021 The United States Embassy condemns the political convictions and egregious prison sentences announced today to punish two Belsat journalists for their work in providing information to the public. This judicial action adds to the evidence that the authorities’ objective is not one of justice but rather an attempt to silence the media and limit the …
Read More» Belarus: Joint Statement by the EU Delegation on behalf of the EU Member States represented in Minsk and the Embassies of the United States, the United Kingdom and Switzerland on the harassment of rights defenders, journalists, and trade union activists Minsk, 17/02/2021 The Belarusian authorities continue their increased harassment of the country’s civil society. …
Read More» February 11, 2021 The Lukashenka regime opened its “All-Belarusian People’s Assembly” on February 11, which it claims includes representatives from across Belarus for the purpose of determining the country’s priorities for the next five years and may consider possible amendments to the country’s constitution. Yet this “All-Belarusian People’s Assembly” is neither genuine nor inclusive of Belarusian views and therefore does not address the country’s ongoing political crisis. The government has jailed Belarusian protest leaders, activists, and dissidents – often on falsified charges – and forcibly exiled others. The political prisoners, those in exile, and the estimated 30,000 others arrested since August 2020 deserve …
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February 8, 2021 U.S. Embassy officers observed a February 5 press conference hosted by the Belarusian Association of Journalists concerning the upcoming criminal trial in Minsk against Belsat journalists Katsiaryna Andreyeva (Bakhvalava) and Daria Chultsova on February 9, in which they face up to 3 years of imprisonment. They have been accused of “organizing events seriously undermining …
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February 7, 2021 Every day but especially today, “The Day of Solidarity with Belarus,” the United States stands with the Belarusian people in their yearning for democracy, liberty, and justice. Fundamental freedoms inherently belong to the people of all nations and are long overdue in independent, sovereign Belarus. In December, the United States Congress passed …
Read More» Recent Developments in Belarus As delivered by Chargé d’Affaires Courtney Austrian to the Permanent Council, Vienna February 4, 2021 Thank you, Mr. Chair. Mr. Chair, the United States welcomes this opportunity to recognize the upcoming Day of Solidarity with the people of Belarus this Sunday, February 7. This Monday, we will mark six months of peaceful …
Read More» The United States condemns the January 18 arrest of Leanid Sudalenka, Chairperson of the Homyel branch of Human Rights Organization Viasna, and his assistant Maryya Tarasenka. We call for their immediate release. Rights activists, such as those working with Viasna, are a critical part of civil society in any country, as they observe a country’s human rights record and shed light on and document human …
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On January 14, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Jeffrey Giauque had an introductory meeting with Belarusian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Aleinik. DFM Aleinik recently assumed responsibility for covering the relationship with the United States for the MFA. During the conversation they discussed bilateral relations and U.S. concerns related to the human rights situation in Belarus. In …
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PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE DECEMBER 23, 2020 Today, the United States is taking action against individuals and entities involved in efforts to undermine Belarusian democracy. Specifically, the U.S. Departments of State and of Treasury have exercised their respective authorities against 40 individuals and four entities involved in electoral fraud and human rights abuses surrounding the fraudulent election …
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Human Rights Violations in Belarus As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna December 17, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. Mr. Chairperson, at the final PC of the year, it is appropriate that we take stock of events in Belarus since the fraudulent August 9 presidential election. We continue to …
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Today, the heads of missions of the EU and EU Member States represented in Minsk, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and of the United States of America met with Belarus’ Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei. The diplomats inquired about the Belarusian authorities’ plans with regard to meeting the demands of the country’s constitution and international obligations …
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OSCE Ministerial – Belarus Side Event Closing Remarks As prepared by DAS George Kent to the OSCE Side Event on Belarus Tirana, Albania (remotely, via Zoom) December 3, 2020 As we conclude today’s event, I want to express my government’s thanks to our UK colleagues, the other co-sponsors, and Minister Kofod of Denmark for his …
Read More» STEPHEN BIEGUN, DEPUTY SECRETARY OF STATE VIRTUAL VIA ZOOM TIRANA, ALBANIA DECEMBER 3, 2020 (As Prepared) It is an honor to join Ambassador Gilmore in representing the United States and Secretary Pompeo at this Ministerial. I commend Chair-in-Office Prime Minister Rama for his leadership throughout this year of unprecedented challenges, not least the global …
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On Human Rights Violations in Belarus As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 19, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairperson. The European Union is right. And we follow on behind their statement. The right to peaceful assembly is one that Americans jealously defend. But it’s more than that, Mr. Chairperson. …
Read More» Joint Statement by the EU Delegation on behalf of the EU Member States represented in Minsk, the British embassy, the Swiss embassy, and the U.S. embassy on the deteriorating human rights situation in Belarus We condemn the increased use of violence and the violations of human and civil rights in Belarus since the fraudulent …
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The United States is shocked and disturbed by the horrible circumstances surrounding the November 12 death of Raman Bandarenka who, according to eyewitness accounts, died from traumatic injuries sustained after brutal beatings by plainclothes police. We extend our condolences to his family and stand in solidarity with all the people of Belarus mourning his loss. We call on the authorities to conduct a transparent investigation and bring to justice those responsible for Mr. Bandarenka’s death. We condemn the ongoing …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE NOVEMBER 12, 2020 The United States condemns the continued detention of political prisoners in Belarus. More than 100 political prisoners are currently being detained for exercising their human rights and fundamental freedoms by peacefully participating in protests, calling for free and fair elections, and advocating for a …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT CALE BROWN, DEPUTY SPOKESPERSON NOVEMBER 11, 2020 The United States expresses solidarity with the United Kingdom and condemns the harassment and expulsion of two UK diplomats from Belarus on November 9. This arbitrary and unjustified act by Belarusian authorities is only the latest attempt to hide the daily harassment and repression everyday …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE NOVEMBER 5, 2020 The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE)’s Moscow Mechanism report on Belarus released on November 5 describes sustained human rights violations and abuses committed on a massive scale and with impunity by the Belarusian authorities during the fraudulent August 9 election and its aftermath. The abuses against peaceful …
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Joint Statement on the Report under The Moscow Mechanism in Relation to Belarus Statement Delivered by H.E. René Rosager Dinesen, Ambassador of Denmark to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 5, 2020 Mr Chair, I am delivering this statement on behalf of the following delegations who, acting together, on 17 September invoked the Moscow Mechanism …
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U.S. National Statement on the Report under The Moscow Mechanism in Relation To Belarus As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna November 5, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, the United States thanks OSCE Moscow Mechanism Rapporteur Professor Wolfgang Benedek for his compelling, thorough, and exceptionally well documented report. …
Read More» Statement by Acting Administrator John Barsa Monday, November 2, 2020 UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Office of Press Relations press@usaid.gov Freedom of the press is a cornerstone to every just and free society. Today, on this International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, we salute all journalists, especially those who risk their safety …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE OCTOBER 28, 2020 The United States welcomes the departure from Belarus of wrongfully detained U.S. citizen Vitali Shkliarov. After three months of wrongful detention and house arrest, Mr. Shkliarov has been reunited with his family and has arrived in the United States. As the President and I …
Read More» U.S. Mission to the United Nations New York, New York October 26, 2020 Joint Statement on the Human Rights Situation in Belarus The following is a joint statement from the United States with Albania, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, …
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Today, Elizabeth Hanny of the U.S. Embassy visited the Yama memorial in Minsk to pay respect to the hundreds of thousands of victims who lost their lives during the Holocaust. The memorial marks the site of the Minsk Ghetto, which was completely destroyed in October 1943 – leaving only 13 survivors. She was heartened to …
Read More» By United States Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom Samuel Brownback and Latvian Minister of Foreign Affairs Edgars Rinkēvičs Since Alyaksandr Lukashenka falsely claimed a landslide victory in early August in a Belarusian presidential election that was neither free nor fair, peaceful protesters have taken to the streets in the largest numbers in the country’s history. …
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As delivered by Deputy Political Counselor Lane Darnell Bahl to the Permanent Council, Vienna October 15, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chair. As in recent weeks, today, it is impossible for us to ignore the ongoing events in Belarus. Not a single case has been opened by Belarusian authorities to review ongoing police violence and repression. …
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On the Exile of Catholic Archbishop Kondrusiewicz PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE OCTOBER 13, 2020 More than 40 days have passed since Belarusian authorities prevented a fellow citizen, Catholic Archbishop Kondrusiewicz, from re-entering the country, on the spurious notion that faith leaders should not publicly challenge injustices. Their action is itself an …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE OCTOBER 2, 2020 Today, in response to the continued, brutal repression of peaceful, pro-democracy protesters in Belarus, the United States and the European Union have taken coordinated action against Belarusian individuals involved in efforts to undermine Belarusian democracy. The U.S. Departments of Treasury and State have exercised separate authorities against 25 Belarusians …
Read More» PRESS RELEASE October 2, 2020 Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated eight individuals for their roles in the fraudulent August 9, 2020 Belarus presidential election or the subsequent violent crackdown on peaceful protesters. These designations, pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13405, target individuals who are responsible for, …
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As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna U.S. Mission OSCE October 1, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairman. We must note our disappointment with Belarusian authorities’ decision to hold a secret presidential inauguration on September 23 after fraudulent elections. We remain deeply concerned about their continued crackdown on peaceful protesters. …
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Special Briefing via Telephone Stephen Biegun Deputy Secretary of State September 11, 2020 The Brussels Hub Moderator: Good afternoon from the U.S. State Department’s Brussels Media Hub. I’d like to welcome all participants to today’s telephonic press briefing with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun. Deputy Secretary Biegun will discuss the U.S. response to …
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Q The protests in Belarus continue, as well as the crackdown on the opposition. What concrete step is the President going to take to support Belarusians in their struggle for democracy and to stop human rights abuses? MS. MCENANY: Yeah, it’s another very good question. The U.S. is extremely concerned by continued human rights violations …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 8, 2020 The United States is deeply concerned by the reported abduction September 7 in Belarus of Coordination Council member Mariya Kalesnikava, Spokesman Anton Rodnenkou, and Executive Secretary Ivan Krautsou, and the attempted forced expulsion over the border to Ukraine September 8. We commend the courage …
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Attacks on Freedom of Opinion and Expression and Media Freedom in Belarus As delivered by Ambassador James S. Gilmore III to the Permanent Council, Vienna September 3, 2020 Recalling the joint project and declaration that the United States and Belarus offered at the last Ministerial, I can assure the members of the goodwill of the …
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PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 20, 2020 The United States has been inspired by the display of peaceful expression of the Belarusian people seeking to determine their own future. We stand by our long-term commitment to support Belarus’ sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as the aspirations of the Belarusian people …
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PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 10, 2020 The United States is deeply concerned about the conduct of the August 9 presidential election in Belarus, which was not free and fair. Severe restrictions on ballot access for candidates, prohibition of local independent observers at polling stations, intimidation tactics employed against opposition candidates, …
Read More» U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release STATEMENT BY SECRETARY MICHAEL R. POMPEO Belarus National Day July 3, 2020 On behalf of the government of the United States and the American people, I send my congratulations to all Belarusian citizens on the occasion of your Independence Day. The United States strongly supports the continued aspirations of …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE MAY 23, 2020 Susan and I extend our warmest wishes to Muslims around the world who are celebrating Eid al-Fitr. Over the past month, Muslims at home and abroad have fasted, centered around spiritual reflection, community and values of gratitude, compassion, and generosity, and have adapted to practicing their faith and observing Ramadan …
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STATEMENT BY SECRETARY MICHAEL R. POMPEO May 15, 2020 First Shipment of U.S. Oil to Belarus This week, the first shipment of U.S. crude oil will depart for Belarus. This competitive deal, by U.S. energy trader United Energy Trading, with the assistance of U.S. firm Getka and their Polish partner UNIMOT, strengthens Belarusian sovereignty and independence, demonstrates that the …
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Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State On World Press Freedom Day, recognized around the world on May 3, we highlight the critical role of independent media in facilitating the open exchange of information and ideas so vital to free, prosperous, and secure democratic societies. This year, as the world faces the COVID-19 pandemic, it is …
Read More» Today, President Donald J. Trump announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key positions in his Administration: Julie D. Fisher, of Tennessee, to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Belarus. Julie Fisher, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, class of Counselor, currently …
Read More» READOUT OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON MARCH 13, 2020 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus: Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo spoke today with Belarusian Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei. Secretary Pompeo thanked Foreign Minister Makei for a successful February 1 visit to Minsk and reiterated U.S. support for Belarusian sovereignty. The Secretary affirmed the willingness of U.S. companies …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE MARCH 8, 2020 The United States welcomes tomorrow’s commencement of the criminal trial in the Netherlands of four individuals indicted for the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17. As the trial begins, we recall the UN Security Council’s demand that “those responsible … be held to account …
Read More» REMARKS MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE AT A PRESS AVAILABILITY MINSK, BELARUS FEBRUARY 1, 2020 MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) Good afternoon, colleagues. Let’s start our press conference because we are quite pressed for time. I give the floor to the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Belarus Vladimir Makei. FOREIGN MINISTER MAKEI: (Via interpreter) Distinguished Mr. Secretary …
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READOUT OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON FEBRUARY 1, 2020 Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo met today with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenka in Minsk, Belarus. Secretary Pompeo and President Lukashenka discussed U.S. commitment to a sovereign, independent, and prosperous Belarus. The Secretary highlighted the recent agreement to exchange ambassadors as another affirmation of our desire to …
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U.S Department of State Press Statement Morgan Ortagus, Department Spokesperson January 24, 2020 Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo will travel to London, UK; Kyiv, Ukraine; Minsk, Belarus; Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan; and Tashkent, Uzbekistan January 29 to February 4. Secretary Pompeo will travel to London on January 29, where he will meet with UK Prime Minister …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MORGAN ORTAGUS, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON JANUARY 1, 2020 Secretary Pompeo must postpone his visit to Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Cyprus due to the need for the Secretary to be in Washington, D.C., to continue monitoring the ongoing situation in Iraq and ensure the safety and security of Americans in the Middle East. Secretary …
Read More» STATEMENT BY MORGAN ORTAGUS, SPOKESPERSON December 30, 2019 Secretary Pompeo’s Travel to Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Cyprus Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo will travel to Kyiv, Ukraine; Minsk, Belarus; Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan; Tashkent, Uzbekistan; and Nicosia, Cyprus from January 3-7. Secretary Pompeo will travel to Kyiv on January 3, where he will meet with President …
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Department of State Office of the Spokesperson Press Statement by Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State December 10, 2019 In 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) to identify common rights and freedoms for all people in all nations. An American, former first lady Eleanor Roosevelt, chaired the …
Read More» 12/03/2019 08:10 AM EST Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State Disability rights are at the heart of American values of human dignity and freedom. Today, on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we recommit ourselves to upholding the rights, dignity, and inclusion of persons with disabilities at home and around the world. As a …
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Chargé d’Affaires Jenifer Moore met the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus Oleg Kravchenko on November 27 to discuss bilateral relations and prospects for further development between the two countries. They also discussed the Mr. Kravchenko’s recent visit to Washington, D.C. Add a translation in Беларуская мова
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Statement by Undersecretary Hale following his meeting with President Lukashenka September 17, 2019 I am pleased to stand here today with Foreign Minister Makei to recognize our joint efforts to move our bilateral relationship forward. Our meeting today marks an historic juncture in U.S. – Belarus relations. It is my honor to announce …
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On August 29, during his first official visit to Minsk, National Security Advisor John Bolton met with President Alexander Lukashenka to discuss security issues and the bilateral relationship. Advisor Bolton also visited the Yama memorial and paid respects to the victims of the tragedy and to those Americans who survived or lost relatives during the …
Read More» Rex W. Tillerson Secretary of State Jane Harman, President and CEO of the Wilson Center The Wilson Center Washington, DC November 28, 20 MS HARMAN: Good morning. I’m Jane Harman, president and CEO of the Wilson Center. Happy to be talking to a packed crowd and to welcome Secretary Rex Tillerson back to the Wilson Center. …
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