Belarus has announced the release of 123 prisoners, including prominent opposition activist Maria Kolesnikova, as part of a diplomatic agreement with the United States. The move comes amid ongoing tensions between the two nations, particularly concerning human rights issues and political repression in Belarus.
Kolesnikova, a key figure in the 2020 protests against President Alexander Lukashenko, was sentenced to 11 years in prison for her role in organizing demonstrations. Her release has been welcomed by international human rights organizations, which have long advocated for the freedom of political prisoners in Belarus.
In response to the prisoner release, the United States has lifted certain sanctions imposed on Belarusian officials and entities. The U.S. government stated that this decision reflects a commitment to support democratic movements and promote human rights in the region.
The Belarusian government has not provided specific details about the terms of the agreement with the U.S. However, analysts suggest that the release of prisoners may be an attempt by Lukashenko to improve relations with the West amid increasing isolation due to his government’s crackdown on dissent. The situation remains fluid as both nations navigate the complexities of their diplomatic relationship.
