S. Cichanouskis: after the US delegation's visit, Belarus may release another group of political prisoners
Siarhei Cichanouski, a Belarusian opposition figure, expressed hopes for the release of more political prisoners following discussions between the US government and Alexander Lukashenko's regime.
In an interview with Ukrinform, opposition leader Siarhei Cichanouski, who has also been imprisoned, discussed the ongoing negotiations between U.S. authorities and the Belarusian government regarding the release of political prisoners. He mentioned that these discussions are expected to yield results, specifically a potential release of another group of political prisoners after the U.S. delegation's visit to Minsk on March 18.
Cichanouski also spoke about his personal engagement with U.S. officials, clarifying that he has not singled out any specific individuals for assistance but aimed to raise the plight of particularly vulnerable groups, including those involved in active resistance and security personnel who are viewed as traitors by the Lukashenko administration. He described the dire conditions these individuals face and indicated that the government is likely to resist their release.
According to human rights center Viasna, the numbers of political prisoners in Belarus are still alarmingly high. discussions for their release are seen as critical not only for the individuals concerned but also for the broader political landscape in Belarus, which remains tense under Lukashenko's rule. Cichanouskiβs comments shed light on the ongoing struggle against repression in Belarus and underscore the international dimensions of the country's political situation.