In a significant political development, Belarus has released 123 prisoners, including the renowned opposition activist Maria Kolesnikova. This release comes on the heels of an agreement between the United States and Belarus to lift certain sanctions imposed on the Eastern European nation. The decision to free these prisoners coincided with discussions held in Minsk involving John Coale, the special envoy for Belarus appointed by former US President Donald Trump.
The US has agreed to ease sanctions on potash, a critical component in fertilizer production and a vital export for Belarus. This move is particularly significant as Belarus is a close ally of Russia. John Coale emphasized that as diplomatic relations between the two countries improve, additional sanctions will likely be lifted. This development marks a notable shift in US foreign policy towards Belarus.
It is important to note that the European Union does not recognize Alexander Lukashenko as the legitimate president of Belarus. Kolesnikova has been incarcerated since 2020, enduring long periods of isolation. Following her release, her sister, Tatiana Khomich, who has campaigned vigorously for her freedom, was able to connect with her via video call. Khomich reported to the BBC that Kolesnikova appeared well and expressed her gratitude to the US administration, President Trump, and the Belarus government for their role in the negotiations.
A group of those released is expected to arrive in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, where a crowd is assembling outside the US embassy to celebrate their freedom. Khomich shared that Kolesnikova's first words during their conversation were a heartfelt thank you to all parties involved in the negotiations.
This prisoner release is a major political achievement for Lukashenko, who has been facing increasing international isolation. Following the contentious elections five years ago, which sparked widespread protests met with brutal police repression, Lukashenko's regime has faced significant criticism from both the US and the EU. Hundreds, including Kolesnikova, were arrested during these protests, and the political climate in Belarus has remained tense and repressive.
The decision to lift sanctions is also a response to the tightening of Western sanctions after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, which involved Belarusian territory. Coale, speaking to Belarusian state media, confirmed that sanctions on potash would be lifted immediately. He also indicated discussions with Lukashenko regarding Ukraine and potential assistance Minsk could provide in dialogues with Vladimir Putin.
This engagement with Belarus represents a significant change in US policy, contrasting sharply with the European approach, which continues to favor sanctions and isolation of Lukashenko's regime. As the situation develops, the international community will be watching closely to see how these changes impact Belarusian politics and its relations with both the US and Europe.