KABUL: U.S. President Donald Trump has appointed John Coale, the country’s special envoy to Belarus, as the U.S. special envoy for hostage affairs.
Trump said Coale had helped secure the return of more than 65 American citizens and nationals of allied countries from Belarus over the past year. He also said Coale had negotiated the release of more than 800 political prisoners in various countries across Eastern Europe.
Coale’s appointment comes after Adam Boehler, who previously served as the U.S. special envoy for hostage affairs, held the position. During his tenure, Boehler visited Afghanistan several times.