The allegation, released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus, adds a sharp diplomatic edge to an event intended to promote global dialogue and conflict-resolution.

In a post on X, the ministry said Foreign Minister Maxim Ryzhenkov had been appointed to represent Minsk "by decision of the Head of State,” emphasizing that "all documents were submitted on time and procedures followed.” The statement asserted that the original invitation—sent from the administration of Donald Trump—was formally addressed to Belarus’ head of state. "If even basic formalities aren’t respected, what ‘peace’ are we talking about?” the ministry wrote.

U.S. officials have not publicly commented on the claim. Visa decisions are made independently by consular officers, and travel requests from sanctioned or high-risk officials can undergo additional scrutiny. Belarusian authorities and senior officials remain subject to U.S. and EU sanctions first imposed in 2020, factors that have complicated official travel for years.

A former senior European diplomat familiar with U.S.–Belarus protocol said that invitations to multilateral events "do not override legal or security restrictions,” adding that diplomatic engagement involving sanctioned states often requires case-by-case approval. The source noted that similar disputes have arisen at international forums where political tensions collide with procedural expectations.

While the peace council meeting proceeded with delegations from multiple regions, Belarus’ absence underscores how strained geopolitical relationships continue to affect participation in global dialogue—even at gatherings meant to foster cooperation and reconciliation.