By Micah Jonah, January 21, 2026
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has joined US President, Donald Trump’s Board of Peace, marking a significant step in his rapprochement with Washington after years of international isolation.
The move follows easing of US sanctions last year in exchange for the release of political prisoners in Belarus. Lukashenko, in power since 1994, has long been criticized in the West for his human rights record and support for Russia in the Ukraine war.
Trump described Lukashenko as a “highly respected” leader, while the Belarus opposition continues to view him as a dictator. The Board of Peace, originally proposed to help end the war in Gaza, now aims to address conflicts globally.
Membership in the board requires contributions of $1 billion to last beyond three years. Alongside Belarus, Armenia has also agreed to join, and Trump has invited Russian President Vladimir Putin to participate.
