Rumours of a major prisoner release from Belarus had been swirling for a couple of days. But no one would reveal the names on the list or the exact number, until everyone was safely out, finally free.
In total, 123 political prisoners have been released, including some of the best-known names among Belarusian opposition politicians, human rights activists, and journalists.
Maria Kolesnikova, the protest leader with a famous red-lipsticked smile, was on the release list. A video of her jumping for joy and hugging other former prisoners, overjoyed to be reunited, spread quickly on social media. It's a feeling of incredible happiness to see those who are dear to me, to hug them and realise we are all free, Kolesnikova said, her lips already painted red again.
Out too is Viktor Babaryka, a banker who attempted to run for president in 2020 but was imprisoned before the elections began. The Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski has also been released from a 10-year sentence.
All were detained for their opposition to the authoritarian rule of Alexander Lukashenko, whose security forces brutally suppressed protests in 2020. Negotiations led by the U.S. culminated in a two-day visit to Minsk by Donald Trump’s special envoy, John Coale, resulting in the release of these prisoners and the lifting of sanctions on Belarusian potash exports.
However, the exact motives behind the U.S. engagement with Belarus remain ambiguous, considering Belarus's close ties with Russia amid ongoing conflicts. While many celebrated the release, others voiced concerns about the potential for Lukashenko to take more hostages in the future.
As the freed prisoners, including Kolesnikova, prepare for their next steps, there remain continued calls for attention to those who are still incarcerated. Activist Ales Bialiatski in particular highlighted the importance of maintaining pressure for the release of all political prisoners in Belarus, urging followers to remain optimistic and active.
