Recent rumors of a significant prisoner release in Belarus culminated in the official announcement of freedom for 123 political prisoners, including well-known opposition figures and activists.
Maria Kolesnikova, a renowned protest leader, was among those released. Videos of her celebrating with fellow ex-prisoners flooded social media, showcasing the joyous yet bittersweet nature of their newfound freedom. It's a feeling of incredible happiness to see those who are dear to me, to hug them and realize we are all free, Kolesnikova expressed as she embraced her family.
The release was the result of extensive negotiations by the US, including a visit from special envoy John Coale to Minsk. In exchange for the prisoners’ freedom, the US lifted sanctions on Belarus’s potash exports, marking a subtle diplomatic shift after years of isolation for President Alexander Lukashenko.
Among the released were Viktor Babaryka, a former presidential candidate, and Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski, who highlighted the ongoing plight of remaining political prisoners. The release drew crowds of well-wishers in Vilnius, Lithuania, where families eagerly awaited their loved ones.
Despite the joyful reunions, the situation remains precarious as many political allies remain imprisoned, and Lukashenko's regime persists in its authoritarian grip.
Ales Bialiatski urged continued activism and optimism, declaring: Never give up! as he promised to advocate for those still suffering in Belarusian prisons.
