Following the 2008 Russo-Georgian War, Russia recognized the disputed regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia independence. Belarus was pressured to recognize Abkhazia and South Ossetia as independent states. At the time, only Russia and Nicaragua had extended diplomatic recognition to Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Belarus did not recognize Abkhazia or South Ossetia and began negotiations with the United States to release political prisoners. At times of strained relations, Russia has previously banned meat products from Poland, wine from Moldova, canned fish from Latvia and most agricultural products from Georgia.