US Wants Ukraine, Europe to Ease Sanctions on Belarus Potash Fertilizer Imports
US Pushes for Easing of Belarus Potash Fertilizer Sanctions
US Advocacy for Relaxing Restrictions
May 20 (Reuters) - The United States is urging Ukraine to relax restrictions on imports of potash fertilizers from Belarus and to press European allies to follow suit, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter.
Potential Diplomatic Implications
According to the report, Washington has argued that dropping restrictions on the imports of the key soil nutrient could help put some distance between Belarus and Russia and might open the door to improved ties with Minsk.
Verification and Official Response
Reuters could not immediately verify the report. The U.S. State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Background on Potash and Belarus
Importance of Potash
Potash is a key ingredient in fertilizers. Belarus, a former Soviet state, is among the world’s leading producers.
Sanctions History
Initial Sanctions after 2020 Election
The U.S. and EU had imposed wide-ranging sanctions on Belarus after Minsk launched a violent crackdown on protesters following a disputed election in 2020.
Further Restrictions Following Ukraine Invasion
Restrictions were tightened after President Alexander Lukashenko allowed Belarus to serve as a staging ground for Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Recent Easing and Current Status
The U.S. in December eased sanctions on three Belarusian potash companies after Minsk released 250 prisoners in a deal brokered by the United States. The European sanctions are valid until February 2027 and can be extended.
Reporting Credits
(Reporting by Mihika Sharma in Bengaluru; Editing by Andrew Heavens)