러시아ㆍ유라시아

Located in Eastern Europe, Belarus is often described as Europe’s only remaining dictatorship. Even though it gained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Belarus maintains close ties with Russia. Combined with the autocratic rule of Belarusian President Lukashenko, these ties make good relations with Minsk a challenge for Washington. If Belarus improves its record on democracy and human rights, the United States should seek out more opportunities for bilateral engagement. Until then, relations will remain unsteady. Russia will also continue to extend its reach into Belarus, and the U.S. should remain aware of Moscow’s ambitions.