Belarus releases 250 political prisoners in deal to ease US sanctions
Belarus’ President Aliaksandr Lukashenka ordered the release of 250 political prisoners as part of a deal with Washington to lift some US sanctions.
US officials express optimism over Belarus’ commitment to reform following the release of 250 political prisoners, signalling a potential thaw in diplomatic relations.
President Aliaksandr Lukashenka’s government is expected to consider further releases of political prisoners as part of ongoing negotiations with Western nations following the recent pardons.
Briefing summary
On Thursday, President Aliaksandr Lukashenka of Belarus ordered the release of 250 political prisoners, part of an agreement to ease some US sanctions. This marks a significant shift in diplomatic ties.
President Donald Trump’s special envoy for Belarus, John Coale, confirmed the release as a humanitarian milestone, acknowledging the contribution of Lithuanian partners in the negotiation process.
Over 1,100 political prisoners remain incarcerated, reflecting ongoing unrest following the contested 2020 election. Recent releases include prominent figures such as Maria Kolesnikova and Ales Bialiatski.
Belarus releases 250 political prisoners after negotiations with US, envoy says
Published on •Updated
Belarus’ President Aliaksandr Lukashenka on Thursday ordered the release of 250 political prisoners as part of a deal with Washington to lift some US sanctions, the latest step in the isolated leader’s effort to improve ties with the West.
Lukashenka pardoned the prisoners after meeting with President Donald Trump’s special envoy for Belarus, John Coale.
“Today’s release of 250 individuals is a significant humanitarian milestone and a testament to the President’s commitment to direct, hard-nosed diplomacy,” Coale said on X, posting a picture with some of the released prisoners.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to our Lithuanian partners for their pivotal role in this mission,” he added.
The authoritarian state has released dozens of prisoners in recent months, largely due to US efforts.
President Donald Trump has sought a rapprochement with Minsk since taking office last year, easing sanctions on the country and welcoming it to his “Board of Peace.”
There are more than 1,100 political prisoners in Belarusian jails, many arrested after a disputed 2020 election that triggered widespread protests, according to the Viasna human rights centre.
Among the highest-profile releases in recent months were Belarusian street protest leader Maria Kolesnikova and Nobel Prize winner Ales Bialiatski, as well as dissident activist Mikola Statkevich.
Belarusian state media published a video showing Lukashenka greeting and embracing Coale in a government building in Minsk on Thursday.
Last September, Belarus released dozens of political prisoners in a US deal, in exchange for the easing of some sanctions.
Additional sources • AFP