Donald Trump is pressuring Lithuania to resume Belarusian potash exports through the port of Klaipėda

The administration of President Donald Trump is pressuring Lithuania to allow Belarusian potash exports to transit through the port of Klaipėda, despite European Union sanctions. The move aims to reduce the United States’ dependence on Canadian potash and lower fertilizer costs for American farmers.

John Coale, the US special envoy for Belarus, has reportedly discussed easing the blockade on Belarusian goods with Lithuanian officials in recent weeks. According to European officials, US efforts have intensified at all levels of the government in Vilnius. The issue was also reportedly raised with officials in Latvia, with a view to using the port of Riga.

Before sanctions were imposed, approximately 90% of Belarus’s potash exports were transported through Klaipėda. The European Union bans imports of Belarusian potash and the use of its ports for these goods, and the measures must be renewed periodically with the unanimous agreement of all 27 member states.

Washington’s interest increased after trade negotiations with Canada failed and tariffs were raised. The United States imports nearly all the potash it needs, while Canada accounts for approximately 80% of imports. Belarus controls about 20% of the global market, but the US initiative faces opposition in Europe, where governments fear that easing sanctions would strengthen Aleksandr Lukashenko’s regime and indirectly support Russia.