Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya met with the US Deputy Secretary of State, Kurt Campbell, during his visit to Vilnius. While she expressed her gratitude to the United States for its support and solidarity, the US representative emphasized that the United States will continue to support the people of Belarus and the democratic community. The parties discussed the following topics during the meeting:
📌 The military and political situation inside the country, including Russia’s use of Belarusian airspace for military operations against Ukraine, and the regime’s supply of arms to the Russian army. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya emphasized that the Belarusian people oppose the war.
📌 International efforts to achieve the release of political prisoners, including the possible additional steps the international community and the United States can take to free political prisoners in Belarus and stop the repression.
📌 Non-recognition of the 2025 “election”. Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya noted that the election will not be transparent, free, or fair, and therefore cannot be recognized by the international community.
📌 Continued Strategic Dialogue between the US and the democratic forces of Belarus. The parties agreed to continue working on several fronts, including political prisoners, media, national identity, and human rights protection, and to hold the next major meeting in the coming months.
📌 Appointment of a US Special Envoy for Belarus. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya stressed that such an appointment would enhance coordination between the democratic forces of Belarus and the United States.
📌 Increased support for civil society and independent media. The Belarusian leader proposed continuing and expanding support programs for independent organizations and initiatives, as well as those persecuted.
📌 Sanctions against the regime. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya called for maintaining sanctions against organizations and individuals involved in repression and facilitating Russia’s war.
📌 Coordinated actions during the UN General Assembly and within the OSCE framework.
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya: “The United States of America is our key ally and partner. We agreed to unite our efforts for the release of political prisoners and democratic changes in our country. I expressed gratitude for the US’ unwavering support for Belarusian civil society, independent media, and the comprehensive support from American diplomats. I emphasized the importance of distinguishing between the regime and Belarusians, as well as between Belarus and Russia. We cannot allow our country to become a ‘consolation prize’ for Putin following the war. We will continue the Strategic Dialogue with the US and hope to hold the next high-level meeting later this year”.
