Hundreds of people were reportedly violently dispersed and arrested in Belarus amid protests against the exclusion of candidates running against Alexander Lukashenko. Journalists were among the detainees.
"We are deeply concerned by recent reports of massive arrests and detentions of peaceful activists and journalists following the disqualification of two prominent opposition candidates for the presidential elections in August," said one spokesperson in response to a CNN survey.
"We continue to urge the government of Belarus to take steps to improve its human rights and democratic record and to honor its commitments to the OSCE," they said. "Respect for fundamental freedoms, including the freedoms of peaceful assembly, expression and association, is crucial to strengthening US-Belarusian bilateral relations."
In a July 3 statement on Belarusian national holiday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged the "government of Belarus to do everything in its power to ensure that the next elections are free and fair ".
"This includes the right of a diverse range of candidates to participate in the campaign, the right of citizens to assemble peacefully and speak freely, and the counting of the votes in an open and fair manner. All of these fundamental freedoms are necessary to guarantee the continued independence and sovereignty of Belarus, "he said.
"The United States is encouraged by the growing relationship between our two countries and is determined to help Belarus develop and diversify its economy. The United States reiterates its commitment to work with all Belarusians in building a bright, secure and democratic future, "said Pompeo.
Washington and Minsk have taken steps to normalize diplomatic relations. In February, Pompeo became the highest US government official to visit the country in decades and met the Belarusian strongman, who has ruled the country since 1994.
In late April, the White House announced the appointment of its US ambassador to Belarus. If confirmed, they would be the first US ambassador to Minsk since 2008, when the Belarusian government expelled the ambassador and 30 out of 35 US diplomats. The State Department announced plans to exchange ambassadors in September 2019 .
