1998 press releases

MFA Misrepresentations on Drozdy (July 9, 1998)

We have seen disturbing reports in the Belarusian media of statements by Belarusian Deputy Foreign Minister Gerasimovich that grossly misrepresent the U.S. position on Drozdy. Our position has not changed. The Government of Belarus mush replace the fences that were removed from our property, remove its representatives from the grounds, permit us to post our own guards there, and allow us unhindered access. This remains the residence of the American ambassador in Minsk for which we have a valid lease agreement with the Belarusian government. We dispute the Belarusian government's assertion that repair of utilities requires the evacuation of the Drozdy residence.

The manner in which the Government of Belarus has handled this issue over the past two months constitutes a blatant violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.