Diplomatic Tango: Lukashenko's Strategy in Venezuelan Crisis

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko held a second meeting with the Venezuelan ambassador amidst U.S. President Donald Trump's mounting pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to step down. Lukashenko expressed openness to Maduro visiting Belarus, as Trump seeks to resolve the Venezuelan crisis through diplomatic means.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko met again with the Venezuelan ambassador to Russia, as U.S. President Donald Trump intensifies pressure on Nicolas Maduro to leave Venezuela. Sources indicate Maduro expressed willingness to depart given legal amnesty for himself and his family.

Lukashenko held discussions with envoy Jesus Rafael Salazar Velazquez, reinforcing Belarus' welcome to Maduro. The meetings' purpose, including potential sanctuary for Maduro, remains undisclosed, as Lukashenko seeks further dialogue after the ambassador coordinates with Venezuelan leadership.

Meanwhile, Trump disavows Maduro's presidency and applies pressure, including military exercises in the Caribbean, while pursuing diplomatic channels with Belarus, easing sanctions, and appointing an envoy to negotiate political prisoner releases.

(With inputs from agencies.)