Events

Lukashenko: Trump excelled as a mediator during Alaska talks

Photo courtesy of RIA Novosti

MINSK, 22 August (BelTA) – U.S. President Donald Trump excelled in his role as a mediator between two conflicting parties during his talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko told journalists on 22 August, BelTA has learned.

The president was asked for his assessment of the U.S.-Russia negotiations in Alaska and whether he agreed with the view that Trump emerged as the loser.

Aleksandr Lukashenko firmly rejected this view. “What did Trump lose to Putin? They had entirely different roles,” he stated. He explained that while Vladimir Putin represented one side of the conflict, Donald Trump acted as a mediator seeking to understand Russia’s position –a role he performed excellently. “The invitation to Alaska was somewhat exotic, but strategic. Putin called me beforehand and mentioned that venues like Rome, Geneva, Türkiye, and the Emirates were considered. I noted that it might seem odd for Orthodox Christians to meet in Rome. He agreed, and after rejecting those options, they decided to wait for an American proposal,” the Belarusian leader said.

“Why blame Trump for not achieving tangible results?” Aleksandr Lukashenko asked rhetorically. Vladimir Putin could have disclosed specifics yet abstained, demonstrating a diplomatic posture consistent with his characteristic conduct.

The president of Belarus admitted to being surprised by Donald Trump’s diplomatic restraint. Contrary to the expectation that Donald Trump would offer details and cover all points as usual, he was notably succinct. “It was a smart move. His [post-talk] speech was only four minutes long,” stated Aleksandr Lukashenko, who described Trump’s role as a mediator as perfect. He clarified that his praise was not a consequence of their phone conversation but a genuine appraisal: “He executed his role magnificently, defying all expectations. Even I, who anticipated a detailed breakdown, was impressed by his adept handling of the situation.”

print version

make home page

add to bookmarks