### U.S. Envoy Keith Kellogg Engages in Historic Talks with Belarus' Lukashenko Amid Ukraine Conflict - In a significant diplomatic move, U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, met with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in Minsk. The meeting, which lasted over six hours, aimed to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine and seek Belarus' support amidst the conflict initiated by Russia. This engagement marks one of the highest-ranking U.S. visits to Belarus in years, reflecting a potential thaw in relations between the two nations, despite Belarus' authoritarian regime and its close ties with Russia. The discussions were reported by multiple news outlets, including The New York Times and Belarusian state news agency Belta, highlighting the importance of this diplomatic dialogue in the context of international politics and security in Eastern Europe [https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/kellogg-and-lukashenko-spend-more-than-six-1750546945.html, https://apnews.com/video/belarusian-president-lukashenko-meets-with-trumps-envoy-keith-kellogg-in-minsk-8aee48931e6f4cd5a183fef8192de664]. ### Structure of the Summary 1. **Background of the Meeting** - Overview of the meeting's context and significance. - Details on the participants and the duration of the talks. 2. **Objectives of the Talks** - Key issues discussed, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict. - The strategic importance of Belarus' position in the geopolitical landscape. 3. **Reactions and Implications** - Responses from various stakeholders regarding the meeting. - Potential implications for U.S.-Belarus relations and the broader regional dynamics. 4. **Conclusion and Future Outlook** - Summary of the meeting's outcomes and future diplomatic engagements. - Considerations for ongoing international relations and peace efforts. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Duration of Meeting**: The talks lasted over six hours, indicating a serious commitment to dialogue [https://newsukraine.rbc.ua/news/kellogg-and-lukashenko-spend-more-than-six-1750546945.html]. - **Significance of the Visit**: This is noted as one of the highest-ranking U.S. visits to Belarus in years, emphasizing a shift in diplomatic engagement [https://kyivindependent.com/kellogg-to-meet-lukashenko-in-highest-ranking-u-s-visit-to-belarus-in-years-reuters-reports]. - **Focus on Ukraine**: The primary agenda was to discuss the war in Ukraine and seek Belarus' support, which is crucial given Belarus' geographical and political proximity to the conflict [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/politics/3466249-diplomatic-dialogue-lukashenko-meets-us-envoy-for-peace-talks]. ### Summary of Findings 1. **Historic Engagement**: The meeting between Keith Kellogg and Alexander Lukashenko represents a pivotal moment in U.S.-Belarus relations, with potential implications for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. 2. **Strategic Discussions**: The focus on the Ukraine war underscores the importance of Belarus' role in regional security and the need for diplomatic channels to address the crisis. 3. **Future Relations**: The outcome of this meeting may pave the way for further diplomatic interactions, potentially altering the dynamics of U.S. engagement with Belarus and its allies in the region. In conclusion, the talks between Kellogg and Lukashenko signify a noteworthy attempt to navigate complex geopolitical challenges, with the potential for reshaping diplomatic relations in Eastern Europe [https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/belarus-lukashenko-meets-with-us-envoy-kellogg-belta-reports].