Maria Kolesnikova urges the EU to use diplomacy and sanctions to free Belarus political prisoners and reduce Russian influence.
Belarus says army checks may extend to mobilisation readiness, adding to European concern over security risks near Ukraine and the EU border.
Belarus mandates conscription of unproductive farm workers to military service, stirring concerns over agricultural supply and market stability for UK and EU stakeholders.
US lifts sanctions on Miami-based Bel-Kap-Steel linked to Belarusian steel giant amid prisoner releases, signaling shifts in UK and EU trade relations and London markets.