Belarusian President Alyaksandr Lukashenka has long viewed Roman Catholics, who form 9-14 percent of the Belarusian population, with hostility and suspicion, given their opposition to his candidacy in 2020 (Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, September 5, 2020; see EDM, December 22, 2020). This perception persists despite relatively good official ties

underscoring their importance. However, what is odd is that throughout the entire inauguration ceremony, Rubio’s whereabouts were unknown. U.S. media reports and related information confirm that Rubio attended Trump’s inauguration, but at no point during the event was there any visible communication or interaction between Trump and Rubio. What