On 21 September 2026, Donald Trump announced that the US was working on a “huge deal” to buy Belarusian potash (potassium fertilisers) at a price “significantly lower than what we pay Canada”. Canada accounts for almost 80% of US potash imports. A few hours earlier, Lukashenko had stated that everything was already contracted (sold in advance under existing agreements) and that extraction had declined.
The EU maintains a ban on the import and transit of Belarusian potash, as well as sanctions against Belaruskali (the producer) and the Belarusian Potash Company (the exporter). The package needs to be extended until February 2027; according to diplomats quoted by RFE/RL, lifting the transit ban alone is a possibility. Lithuania is an obstacle, as its courts have ruled that transit poses a threat to national security.
An important detail for transactions: US and European sanctions lists concerning Belarus no longer coincide — each counterparty requires separate checks in both systems. Any lifting of the EU transit ban would open an export route through Baltic ports.
Sources: Meduza, 21 September 2026; bne IntelliNews, 23 September 2026; RFE/RL, 29 September 2026.