Statement by Matthew Miller, Spokesperson September 7, 2023 The Lukashenka regime’s decision to stop providing overseas passport services harms thousands of Belarusians living abroad and is the latest in a long line of cynical rejections by the regime of its basic obligations to its people. The decree’s sole aim is to make the lives of …
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PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 9, 2023 Today marks three years since the fraudulent presidential election in Belarus and the Alyaksandr Lukashenka regime’s crackdown on the Belarusian people’s demands for freedom. The United States continues to stand with the brave people of Belarus as they seek a country grounded in the rule of law, respect for human …
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Three years ago, tens of thousands of Belarusians from all walks of life took to the streets to demand change in response to the fraudulent 2020 election. In response to peaceful protests, Belarusian authorities launched a brutal crackdown, with security forces arresting and imprisoning thousands of mothers and fathers, teachers, tradespeople, pensioners and others, many …
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PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JULY 3, 2023 On the occasion of Belarus’ official Independence Day, the people of the United States of America send their warmest wishes to the people of Belarus. Your courage, resilience, and perseverance in pursuing a democratic, sovereign, and stable future for Belarus have inspired the world. From behind prison walls, in the …
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Statement By Secretary Antony J. Blinken May 20, 2023 On the eve of the Day of Solidarity with Belarusian Political Prisoners, we condemn the Lukashenka regime in Belarus for unjustly holding over 1,500 political prisoners. These men and women have been arrested and incarcerated for exercising their human rights and fundamental freedoms in pursuit of …
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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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PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE OCTOBER 12, 2022 The United States’ National Security Strategy lays out a vision for a free, open, secure, and prosperous world and a comprehensive plan to realize it. This is not just our vision, but one shared by many other countries that seek to live in a world that respects …
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Press Statement Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State October 12, 2022 Today’s remarkable vote at the United Nations General Assembly is a powerful reminder that the overwhelming majority of nations stand with Ukraine, in defense of the UN Charter, and in resolute opposition to Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine and its people. Territorial …
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UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Office of Press Relations For Immediate Release August 9, 2022 STATEMENT BY ADMINISTRATOR SAMANTHA POWER Second Anniversary of the Fraudulent Presidential Belarusian Election Two years ago, the people of Belarus exercised their democratic right to elect their president. In response, Alyaksandr Lukashenka falsified the results and claimed victory, trampling …
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement Matthew S. Axelrod issued an order temporarily denying all export privileges for Belavia Belarusian Airlines (Belavia) due to ongoing violations of the comprehensive export controls imposed on Belarus by the Commerce Department. The flag carrier and state-owned national airline of …
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One year ago, the Lukashenka regime in Belarus forced Ryanair Flight 4978 to land in Minsk by lying about a bomb threat. Two passengers from that flight remain in Belarusian custody and have yet to reach their final destination. Raman Pratasevich was the initial target of the operation and continues to be victimized as a …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE MAY 18, 2022 Amidst Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified war against Ukraine, the Lukashenka regime in Belarus has found new ways to intimidate and punish its own citizens, including by approving legislation to apply the death penalty to pro-democracy activists and those opposing Russia’s war in Ukraine. Specifically, …
Read More» STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN February 28, 2022 The U.S. Department of State has suspended operations at our Embassy in Minsk, Belarus and authorized the voluntary departure (“authorized departure”) of non-emergency employees and family members at our Embassy in Moscow, Russia. We took these steps due to security and safety issues stemming from the …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE FEBRUARY 3, 2022 The Department of State is imposing visa restrictions on Belarusian nationals under the “Khashoggi Ban,” a tool the Administration announced last year to counter transnational repression. Today’s actions target multiple Belarusian nationals for their involvement in serious, extraterritorial counter-dissident activity. The United States condemns …
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PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JANUARY 27, 2022 The Lukashenka regime now holds more than 1,000 political prisoners. These Belarusians, from all walks of life, have been arrested and confined simply because they peacefully exercised their rights to freedom of expression and assembly in response to a fraudulent election and the Lukashenka …
Read More» 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 …
Read More» United States Mission to the United Nations New York, New York November 11, 2021 Joint Statement on the Belarusian Authorities’ Activities with Regard to the Instrumentalization of Migrants The following is a joint statement delivered by the Permanent Representative of Estonia on behalf of Albania, Estonia, France, Ireland, Norway, the United Kingdom, and the United …
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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 …
Read More» 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 …
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» Department Press Briefing – July 20, 2021 NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON JULY 20, 2021 We stand with the people of Belarus and members of its civil society. We support their aspirations for a democratic, free, and prosperous future. We also echo their calls for the regime to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms. And so we are committed to …
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Until further notice, Embassy Minsk will pause scheduling new non-emergency, non-immigrant visa appointments. If you already have a scheduled appointment for a visa interview, we are looking forward to seeing you soon. Please arrive on time and with the appropriate documents. Services for American citizens will continue. Please monitor the Embassy’s social media accounts for regular updates regarding …
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 …
Read More» U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Office of the Spokesperson MEDIA NOTE June 21, 2021 Joint Statement on Belarus The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Canada and the United Kingdom, and the European External Action Service. Begin Text: We are united in our deep concern regarding …
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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 …
Read More» 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 …
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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 …
Read More» March 2, 2021 The United States condemns the politically motivated convictions and sentences meted out today to a journalist, Katsyaryna Barysevich, and a medical doctor, Artsiom Sarokin, for their role in exposing the truth about Raman Bandarenka’s death while he was in police custody. This criminal case was designed to punish individuals who exposed a …
Read More» Renovation of U.S. Embassy Minsk, Belarus THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE, Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations is requesting submissions of interest from construction firms for a multi-year renovation project on the U.S. Embassy compound located at 46 Starovilenskaya St., in the Storozhovka neighborhood. Interest is being solicited from both American-owned and Non-American owned firms to …
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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 …
Read More» February 10, 2021 In Belarus and around the world, United States diplomats — like diplomats from other countries — regularly attend local court proceedings, observe protests and demonstrations, and meet with members of opposition political parties and human rights defenders. United States diplomats do this especially in cases that touch on media freedom, other fundamental …
Read More» The goal of the Small Grants Program is to support civil society development in Belarus. This year we are having one call for proposals. This call for proposals will be devoted to projects that contribute to: Strengthening of local communities and improving conditions for civic initiatives and participation. Protecting disability rights, women’s and children’s rights, and supporting …
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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 …
Read More» January 15, 2021 We are deeply concerned by the continuing harassment of Belarusian independent media doing nothing other than their jobs: reporting factual information to their fellow citizens. This week’s arrest of Andrei Alyaksandrau and yesterday’s raid on the BelaPAN news agency in search of dubious justifications for his arrest are yet more evidence that the authorities continue to be willing to manipulate the law for their own political …
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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 …
Read More» Press Release December 23, 2020 Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated one individual and four entities for their roles in the fraudulent August 9, 2020, presidential election in Belarus and the subsequent violent crackdown on peaceful pro-democracy protests. These designations, pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) …
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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 …
Read More» Are you interested in improving your English while practicing the essentials of journalism with a U.S. professor? Improve your English grammar, vocabulary and writing skills through exciting topics in journalism and world news. Press Club Belarus and the U.S. Embassy Minsk are pleased to announce a free online course “English for Journalists”. Sponsored by the Department of State and …
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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 …
Read More» The United States condemns the Belarusian authorities’ actions targeting local and foreign journalists. No members of the media should be threatened, physically abused, arrested, or imprisoned by anyone for any reason simply for doing their jobs as journalists. A strong independent media and the free exchange of, and access to, information are essential for rule of law to take root in …
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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 U.S. Embassy in Minsk is pleased to announce its annual Fulbright competition for Belarusian scholars for the 2021-2022 academic year. Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program is a non-degree, post-doctoral award program for researchers, university lecturers and experts from academic institutions in Belarus who wish to conduct post-doctoral research, lecture, or pursue combined lecturing and research …
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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 …
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The United States appreciates the opportunity to address the issues of access to information and freedom of the media at today’s webinar. Freedom of information is essential for the implementation of Principle VII of the Helsinki Final Act, which recognizes the right of individuals to know and act upon their human rights and fundamental freedoms, …
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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Spokesperson Lee McManis visited the TUT.BY office today to deliver a letter from the U.S. Embassy’s Charge d’affaires, Jeffrey Giauque, congratulating this media outlet on its 20th anniversary and our wish for TUT.BY to have happy anniversaries into the future. He also delivered for the occasion a celebratory cake, colored with the outlet’s colors of …
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. …
Read More» Joint Statement on Internet Shutdowns in Belarus MEDIA NOTE OFFICE OF THE SPOKESPERSON SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, …
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The OSCE Invokes the Moscow Mechanism over Credible Reports of Human Rights Abuses and Election Irregularities in Belarus PRESS RELEASE | September 17, 2020 Vienna – Before, during, and after the fraudulent August 9 elections in Belarus, the United States and other participating States of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) expressed …
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Thank you for your patience as we prepared to resume processing student visas. Today, we’re happy to provide instructions for how to schedule your visa interview. Interviews will begin Monday, September 21, 2020. All applicants need to fill out the DS-160 form, and have paid their SEVIS fee. Additionally, you will need to bring confirmation …
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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 …
Read More» U.S. Embassy, Minsk Statement by Department of State Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus August 29, 2020 Belarus – Targeting and Detaining Journalists and Blocking Internet Access Must Cease We are concerned by the continued targeting of journalists, the blocking of independent media and opposition websites, intermittent internet blackouts, and random detentions of peaceful citizens exercising their rights …
Read More» Joint Statement by the Missions of the United States, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and the European Union on behalf of the EU Member States represented in Minsk on the use of violence and repression in Belarus Minsk, 28/08/2020 Recalling our earlier comments and statements, we stand in solidarity with the people of Belarus who demand …
Read More» As delivered by Deputy Secretary Stephen E. Biegun to the Special Permanent Council, Vienna August 28, 2020 Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for calling this important meeting today. And it is an honor to be here with all of you. Earlier this week, I had the privilege of meeting in Vilnius with Belarusian opposition candidate Sviatlana …
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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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Excerpt from the White House press briefing 8/10 with Kayleigh McEnany on Belarus: “We’re deeply concerned by the Belarus presidential election. Severe restrictions on ballot access for candidates, prohibition of local independent observers at polling stations, intimidation of opposition candidates, and the detention of peaceful protesters and journalists have marred the process, and we urge …
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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 …
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REMARKS TO THE PRESS MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE PRESS BRIEFING ROOM WASHINGTON, DC JUNE 10, 2020 SECRETARY POMPEO: Good morning, everyone. It’s great to be with you all today. I’m here one more time, proudly, to talk about freedom and free societies. And while America is not a perfect nation by any means, we always strive towards that more …
Read More» Joint Statement on the Presidential Elections in Belarus by the Missions of the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union on behalf of the EU Member States represented in Minsk We, as friends of the Belarusian people and supporters of the sovereignty and independence of Belarus, welcome the progress achieved in our relations …
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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 …
Read More» May 8, 2020 Seventy-five years ago today, the last remnants of the Nazi regime unconditionally surrendered to the Allied Powers, marking the end of World War II in Europe. Today, we celebrate the forces of freedom who defeated tyranny and emerged victorious in that monumental struggle. We pay tribute to those who served for their …
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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 …
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On April 25, we remember that American troops met Belarusian and other troops from the constituent peoples of the Soviet Union on the Elbe River, signaling the end to one of the most tragic periods in history and making the way forward towards peace. Joint Statement by President Donald J. Trump and President Vladimir …
Read More» PRESS STATEMENT MICHAEL R. POMPEO, SECRETARY OF STATE APRIL 23, 2020 On behalf of the American people, I extend my best wishes to Muslim communities in the United States and around the world as they mark the start of the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan is a time of introspection, service, and compassion. In the United States, under normal circumstances, many …
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Frequently Asked Questions from American Citizens regarding March 11 and March 14 Presidential Proclamations 1. Q: I am a U.S. citizen in Europe. Do the March 11 and March 14 Presidential Proclamations prevent me from returning to the United States? A: No. The restrictions do not apply to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. For the most …
Read More» In consideration of the Belarus Council of Ministers’ decision to limit cultural, scientific, sports and other events to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Embassy in Minsk will suspend non-immigrant visa services beginning March 17, 2020. Services for U.S. citizens will continue to be available. The U.S. Embassy in Minsk is committed to protecting …
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» The President of the United States has signed a Presidential Proclamation entitled “Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting 2019 Novel Coronavirus.” The Proclamation suspends the entry of most foreign nationals who have been physically present in any of the countries listed below at any point during …
Read More» The annual Country Reports on Human Rights Practices – the Human Rights Reports – cover internationally recognized individual, civil, political, and worker rights, as set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international agreements. The U.S. Department of State submits reports on all countries receiving assistance and all United Nations member states …
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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 …
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» Special Briefing via Telephone Brigadier General Sean Bernabe Deputy Chief of Staff, G3, U.S. Army Europe Moderator: Greetings to everyone from the U.S.-European Media Hub in Brussels. I would like to welcome our participants dialing in from around the world and thank all of you for joining this discussion. Today we are pleased to …
Read More» Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State 11/20/2019 09:33 AM EST The United States recognizes the peaceful conduct of the November 17 parliamentary elections in Belarus and the high number of accredited local and international observers. However, election observation missions jointly concluded that “fundamental freedoms were disregarded and the integrity of the election process was not …
Read More» The United States Embassy in Belarus is accepting applications for the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) competition. This prestigious U.S. Government program has provided direct grant support for cultural preservation projects throughout the world since 2001. The competition is open to Belarusian non-governmental organizations, institutions of culture, museums and other establishments. Funded activities include …
Read More» CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: 09/26/2019 at 11:59 p.m. Kyiv Time Solicitation 72011319R05 for a Development Outreach and Communications Specialist, Cooperating Country National Personal Services Contractor (CCN PSC). MARKET VALUE: Basic Annual rate (in U.S. Dollars): $32,920 to $42,803 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Employment under any contract issued under this solicitation is of a continuing …
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Remarks Acting Assistant Secretary Ambassador Philip T. Reeker Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs Yom HaShoah reception U.S. Diplomacy Center Pavilion, Department of State Thanks, Tom. I am delighted to be here today. I bring you greetings from Secretary Pompeo. I was just with him in his office discussing a number of current policy issues. …
Read More» On Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, and during this week of solemn remembrance, we honor the six million Jewish men, women, and children who were brutally murdered by the Nazi regime. We also remember the Roma and Sinti, persons with disabilities, Poles and Slavic ethnic groups, Soviet prisoners of war, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and persons who …
Read More» For far too long, Russia has violated the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty with impunity, covertly developing and fielding a prohibited missile system that poses a direct threat to our allies and troops abroad. Tomorrow, the United States will suspend its obligations under the INF Treaty and begin the process of withdrawing from the INF …
Read More» Due to the lapse in U.S. government appropriations, the U.S. Embassy in Minsk is required to curtail all public activities, with the exception of “those necessary for emergencies involving the safety of human life or the protection of property, and those necessary for activities essential to national security.” For this reason, and with deep regret, …
Read More» Heather Nauert Department Spokesperson Washington, DC November 23, 2018 This month we join Ukrainians around the world in marking the 85th anniversary of the Holodomor, when millions of innocent Ukrainians were deliberately starved to death by the regime of Josef Stalin. The Soviet Union’s barbaric seizure of Ukrainian land and crops was undertaken with the …
Read More» Today, the United States imposed financial sanctions on three individuals and nine entities that are supporting Russia’s attempt to integrate Crimea region of Ukraine through private investment and privatization projects or those that are engaging in serious human rights abuses in furtherance of Russia’s occupation or control over parts of Ukraine. The sanctioned individuals are …
Read More» Today, we commemorate the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. We renew our steadfast commitment to promoting a free and independent press and advocating for accountability against those who commit violence or other crimes against journalists. Commemorating this day is particularly important this year, as we continue to seek all facts in …
Read More» USAID/Belarus announces Community Connections exchange visitor program for 2019. The program will take Belarusian professionals on three-week visits to the U.S. tailored to the participants’ professional needs. Please read the program description here (Russian) and here (Belarusian) Please see the application form here (Russian) and here (Belarusian)
Read More» Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs A. Wess Mitchell will travel to: Minsk, Belarus; Vilnius, Lithuania; and the Hague, Netherlands from October 30 to November 2. On October 30, he will arrive in Minsk, where he will meet with senior Belarusian officials to discuss U.S.-Belarusian cooperation on a range of global issues. …
Read More» Today we commemorate the 20th anniversary of the signing of the 1998 International Religious Freedom Act (IRF Act) into law. The IRF Act expanded U.S. foreign policy capabilities to promote and defend religious freedom around the world. It builds on our founding fathers’ firm conviction that the freedom of individuals to believe as they see …
Read More» The United States Embassy in Belarus is accepting applications for the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation competition. This prestigious U.S. Government program has provided direct grant support for cultural preservation projects throughout the world since 2001. The competition is open to Belarusian non-governmental organizations, institutions of culture, museums and other establishments. Funded activities include the …
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Charge d’affaires Jenifer Moore participated in a commemoration, related to the 75th anniversary of the destruction of the Minsk ghetto, at the Yama memorial in Minsk today. October 21-23 in 1943 were the last of the deadly 825 days for 100,000 ghetto prisoners, those local and European Jews who had gone through immense tragedies and …
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Read More» On October 12, the United States and the Republic of Belarus will hold the fifth annual bilateral Human Rights Dialogue in Minsk. Senior Bureau Official for the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Michael Kozak will lead the U.S. delegation. Deputy Foreign Minister Oleg Kravchenko will head the Belarusian delegation. …
Read More» Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo Secretary of State Washington, DC July 3, 2018 On behalf of the Government of the United States of America, best wishes to the people of Belarus on the occasion of your officially designated Independence Day. The United States is committed to supporting Belarus’s sovereignty and independence. We continue to work …
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Today Chargé d’affaires Robert Riley together with the local government representatives and the head of the Republican scientific technical library opened the eleventh InfoUSA space in Belarus. The U.S. diplomat welcomed all the guests to the new site and highlighted the important role of the partnership projects the Embassy in the country. With help of …
Read More» One hundred years ago, the Brest-Litovsk Treaty was signed. A horrible war receded from this land but left conflict, grief and debris in its wake. And unfortunately the peace that ensued did not last long. World War I left an indelible mark on mankind. Together with embassies of other countries, which fought in “the Great …
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On November 1, Chargé d’affaires Robert Riley and consul Aleta Kovensky held a press conference to announce the expansion of visa services in Belarus. Media Statement by the U.S. Embassy in Minsk, Belarus: The Embassy of the United States in Minsk is pleased to announce the expansion of visa services in Belarus. Beginning November 1, the …
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On August 28, 2017 U.S. Chargé d’affaires to Belarus Robert Riley together with the legal attaché from the Federal Bureau of Investigation of the United States of America Johannes Van Den Hoogen visited the Investigative Committee of Belarus and met with its Chairman Ivan Noskevich to discuss bilateral cooperation in the fight against transnational crime, …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy in Belarus draws the attention of the citizens of the Republic of Belarus that in connection with the changes in the consular procedures the U.S. Embassy in Moscow and the U.S. Consulate in St. Petersburg will no longer accept new visa applications for residents of Belarus. NIV appointments for Belarussian applicants who …
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On August 4, 2017 the U.S. Embassy, the United Nations Office in Belarus and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belarus held a commemoration ceremony for American Ruth Waller, a member of the United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration (UNRRA) Mission in post-war Belarus. UNRRA’s technical and food assistance, to which the United States was …
Read More» July 27 marks the 27th anniversary of the adoption of Belarus’s Declaration on State Sovereignty. The Declaration started the process that led to Belarus’s independence in 1991. As I have said many times, the U.S. strongly supports Belarus’ sovereignty and independence, and we congratulate all Belarusians on this very important date in the history of …
Read More» A U.S. congressional delegation led by Senator Wicker, chairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, is visiting Minsk on July 5-9, 2017. The delegation is planning to participate in the 26th session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, also to meet with Belarus governmental officials, representatives of opposition political parties and members of country’s civil society.
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On behalf of the American people, best wishes to the people of Belarus celebrating Independence Day. The United States remains committed to working with the government and people of Belarus to support the country’s sovereignty and independence, increasing respect for democratic institutions and fundamental freedoms, and promoting a thriving economy. Through continued diplomatic and people-to-people …
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Chargé d’affaires Robert Riley and EU Ambassador Andrea Wiktorin met with Minister of Information Liliya Ananich on May 17 to discuss media-related topics.
Read More» The United States notes with deep concern that authorities in Belarus failed to allow peaceful demonstrations in Minsk for the annual “Freedom Day” commemoration. The authorities’ large-scale detention of peaceful protesters, human rights observers and journalists infringes upon basic democratic values. There have been reports of use of force by the security services against those …
Read More» The Embassy of the United States of America in Minsk announces the following change to visa processing procedures: Pursuant to the Executive Order entitled “Protecting the Nation from Foreign Terrorist Entry into the United States,” signed by President Donald J. Trump on January 27, 2017, the Embassy of the United States of America in Belarus …
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President Trump delivered this inaugural address on January 20, 2017. THE PRESIDENT: Chief Justice Roberts, President Carter, President Clinton, President Bush, President Obama, fellow Americans, and people of the world: thank you. We, the citizens of America, are now joined in a great national effort to rebuild our country and restore its promise for all of …
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This year marks the 25th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States of America and the Republic of Belarus. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1991, the United States has strongly supported Belarus’s independence and sovereignty, as well as its path toward a more democratic and prosperous society. Over these 25 years, the …
Read More» The United States Embassy in Belarus is accepting applications for the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation competition. This prestigious U.S. Government program has provided direct grant support for cultural preservation projects throughout the world since 2001. The competition is open to Belarusian non-governmental organizations, institutions of culture, museums and other establishments. Funded activities include the …
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Good afternoon, everybody. Yesterday, before votes were tallied, I shot a video that some of you may have seen in which I said to the American people: Regardless of which side you were on in the election, regardless of whether your candidate won or lost, the sun would come up in the morning. And that …
Read More» Chargé d’affaires Robert Riley met with Minister of Justice Oleg Slizhevski on October 24 to discuss of mutual interest, including potential areas of cooperation, the structure of the Ministry, rule of law, independent institutions and the legal environment in Belarus.
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Thank you all for coming here so late in the day. I am pleased to be back in Minsk. Today, I had positive meetings with Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei, representatives of opposition parties, members of civil society, and human rights activists to discuss the depth and breadth of our bilateral relationship. As part of this …
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Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasia Bridget Brink is visiting Minsk October 18-19, 2016. She is scheduled to meet with Belarusian government officials, civil society and opposition party representatives, and human rights activists.
Read More» STATEMENT BY JOHN KIRBY, SPOKESPERSON Parliamentary Elections in Belarus 12 September, 2016 The United States welcomes the peaceful conduct of the September 11 parliamentary elections in Belarus. We recognize some improvements in the electoral process, and we note that alternative voices will be represented in parliament for the first time in 12 years. Still, the elections …
Read More» Bob Riley, Chargé d’affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Minsk, met on September 6 with the Chairwoman of the Central Election Commission, Lidiya Yermoshina, to discuss the preparations for the 2016 parliamentary elections and to encourage the CEC to take up meaningful reform of Belarus’s electoral legislation and regulations. The Chargé d’affaires stressed that the …
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On August 8, Colonel Michael C. VanDeVelde received accreditation from the Government of Belarus as non-resident Defense Attaché from the United States of America to the Republic of Belarus. His Belarusian counterpart Lieutenant Colonel Andrei Mishuta will be accredited as a non-resident Defense Attaché in Washington, D.C. this month. Colonel VanDeVelde’s accreditation represents the next …
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Press Statement John Kirby Assistant Secretary and Department Spokesperson, Bureau of Public Affairs Washington, DC July 20, 2016 We are shocked and saddened by the killing of Ukrainska Pravda journalist Pavel Sheremet in a car bombing in Kyiv. We join the government of Ukraine in support of a full and impartial investigation that will bring those responsible …
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On behalf of President Obama and the American people, I congratulate the people of Belarus on the anniversary of Belarus’ declaration of independence from the Soviet Union on July 27, 1990, and on the officially observed Independence Day on July 3. I also congratulate the people of Minsk on the anniversary of the liberation of …
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I am delighted to be back in Belarus and I would like to thank everyone we have met for a warm welcome. An important part and reason for my visit is to participate in the third round of the US-Belarus Human Rights Dialogue, after two previous sessions in Washington in May and December 2015. Over …
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Mr. Jonathan Katz, Deputy Assistant Administrator for the USAID Bureau for Europe and Eurasia, is visiting Minsk on April 20-22. While in Minsk, Mr. Katz will have meetings with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Economy, and civil society and business community representatives. On April 21st, Mr. Katz will kick-off Venture Day This …
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I am delighted to be in Belarus and I would like to thank everyone we have met with so far for their very warm welcome and hospitality. This is my first visit to Minsk and I am very impressed. I know Belarus is a proud nation; it has suffered tremendously in the course of two …
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Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Michael Carpenter is visiting Minsk March 28-30, 2016. While in Minsk, Dr. Carpenter will have meetings with the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and President Lukashenka. Dr. Carpenter’s visit follows on consultations held by a Ministry of Defense delegation, which visited Washington, DC in December 2015.
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My colleague and I are delighted to be in Belarus and I would like to thank everyone we have met with for their warm welcome. Over the course of these two days we met with Belarusian officials as well as members of the opposition, civil society, human rights activists, and the business community. Our message …
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A U.S. State Department delegation, including Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Europe and Eurasia Bridget Brink and Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Robert Berschinski is visiting Minsk November 4-5, 2015. The delegation is scheduled to meet with Belarusian government officials, civil society and political parties representatives, business community …
Read More» U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson Statement by Mark Toner, Deputy Spokesperson The United States welcomes the peaceful conduct of the October 11 presidential election in Belarus. However, we are disappointed that the elections fell significantly short of Belarus’ international obligations and commitments for free and fair elections, as demonstrated by reports from …
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Under Secretary of State for Management Patrick Kennedy arrived in Minsk for an official visit on September 11. While in Minsk, Under Secretary Kennedy toured the embassy compound and met with U.S. Embassy staff. He also met with Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei to discuss the status of U.S.-Belarusian relations. Under Secretary Kennedy welcomed the recent …
Read More» Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by John Kirby, Spokesperson August 23, 2015 The United States welcomes the August 22 release from prison in Belarus of Mikalai Statkevich, Ihar Alinevich, Mikalai Dziadok, Evgeniy Vackovich, Artyom Prokopenko, and Yuriy Rubtsov. The release of these six political prisoners is a positive development for the people of Belarus …
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A U.S. congressional delegation, including Dana Rohrabacher, Chairman, Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia and Emerging Threats; Representative Gregory Meeks, Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia and Emerging Threats; and Representative Stephen Cohen, Ranking Member, Subcommittee on the Constitution and Civil Justice, US House of Representatives Judiciary Committee; is visiting Minsk August 2-4, 2015. The delegation conducted …
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America began as a daring idea. Under the rule of a tyrannous monarch, our Founders imagined and believed in a self-governing nation where all people, having been created equal, would be entitled to life and liberty, and where opportunity could be realized by anyone with determination and a dream. With unwavering resolve to steer the …
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The Embassy of the United States in Minsk is pleased to announce an expansion of visa services. Starting June 1, the Embassy will accept applications to renew current visas and those that have expired up to 4 years ago. In some cases, applicants will not even have to appear at the embassy for an interview. …
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The U.S. Embassy is proud to host the visit by the United States Air Force in Europe Band to Minsk, May 6-10. In addition to participating in the May 9 Victory Day celebrations in Minsk, the band will perform at the Brest Fortress, the first point of the invasion of Belarus by Hitler’s armed forces …
Read More» Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Eric Rubin met today with President Lukashenka. They discussed, among other things, bilateral U.S.-Belarusian relations, human rights and democratization issues, the state of the Belarusian economy, and issues of regional security, including the situation in Ukraine. Mr. Rubin noted the positive role Belarus has played in …
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Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Eric Rubin is visiting Minsk, Belarus February 26-28, 2015. Mr. Rubin will conduct a wide range of meetings, including with government officials (among others, Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei), members of the Diplomatic Corps, civil society, the political opposition, and relatives of political prisoners. In his …
Read More» A United States Government Inter-Agency delegation from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and Departments of State and Defense completed a two and a half day official visit to Minsk. The delegation includes Paige Alexander, Assistant Administrator of USAID; Thomas Melia, Deputy Assistant Secretary from Department of State; and Evelyn Farkas, Deputy Assistant Secretary …
Read More» A U.S. Government interagency delegation, including USAID Assistant Administrator for the Bureau of Europe and Eurasia Paige Alexander, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor Thomas Melia, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia, Ukraine and Eurasia Evelyn Farkas, is visiting Minsk September 8-11, 2014. The group plans on conducting …
Read More» The Embassy of the United States in Minsk is pleased to announce visa services for applicants who wish to renew petition-based visas in H, L, P, O and R categories. Starting September 8, the Embassy will accept applications for renewals of H (Temporary Workers), L (Intracompany Transferees), O (People with Extraordinary Ability), P (Athletes, Artists, …
Read More» The U.S. Embassy is pleased to announce that the Belarusian NGO “Brest Fortress Development Foundation” is among the winners of the prestigious international competition for the 2014 Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation. As a recipient of the 2014 Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation award, the organization will receive more than USD 100,000 in funding to inventory …
Read More» The Embassy of the United States in Minsk is pleased to announce expanded visa services for the first time since 2008. Starting August 4, the Embassy will accept applications for F (Student), M (Vocational Student), and J (Exchange Visitor) non-immigrant visa categories. All applicants applying for F, M, and J visas in Minsk should follow …
Read More» For the first time since 2008, Embassy Minsk will resume offering some visa services to the general public of Belarus. Details of these changes will be posted on this website shortly, along with explanations of the categories of visa applicants who will be eligible to apply at our Embassy in Minsk. Please continue to visit …
Read More» Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Eric Rubin visited Minsk, Belarus June 2-4 2014. Mr. Rubin conducted a wide range of meetings, including with Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei, members of the Diplomatic Corps, civil society, and relatives of political prisoners. In his meetings, Mr. Rubin explored the possibility for continued improved …
Read More» The Department of State submitted to the United States Congress on February 27 its 2013 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices. The report describes human rights conditions in almost 200 countries and territories. It covers internationally recognized individual, civil, political, and worker rights as set forth in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and …
Read More» Commercial Counsellor Cheryl Dukelow of the US Foreign Commercial Service (Department of Commerce) visited Minsk February 25-26. She met with a wide group of interlocutors, including Deputy Foreign Minister Guryanov and other government officials, business people and independent business associations, representatives of Belarusian and American companies, and members of the diplomatic corps. Ms. Dukelow provided …
Read More» Good morning. I am delighted to be back in Kyiv at this historic moment. President Obama and Secretary Kerry asked me to convey a simple message—a message of deep admiration for the courage and determination of Ukrainians in the face of last week’s tragic violence, and a message of strong American support for a stable, …
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