U.S. President Donald Trump spoke with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko by phone before his Alaska meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The conversation, described by Trump as “great,” included thanks for a recent prisoner release and discussions on Putin’s upcoming trip and other bilateral issues. Belarus has deepened ties with Russia during the Ukraine war, serving as a key supporter and hosting part of the Russian invasion. Lukashenko has also strengthened trade and security cooperation with Moscow amid Western sanctions.