Rumours of a major prisoner release from Belarus had been swirling for a couple of days. However, the names on the list remained undisclosed until all were safely freed. In total, 123 political prisoners have been released, including notable Belarusian opposition politicians, human rights activists, and journalists.
Maria Kolesnikova, known for her vibrant smile and activism, was among those released. Videos of her celebrating with fellow former prisoners quickly circulated on social media. 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 with joy, recalling the beauty of the sunset marking her freedom.
Additionally, Viktor Babaryka, who aimed to run for president in 2020, and Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski, have also regained their freedom. Each of these individuals had been imprisoned for opposing the authoritarian regime of Alexander Lukashenko, which suppressed mass protests in 2020 with brutal force.
The release is part of a diplomatic breakthrough involving the US, as the sanctions on a vital Belarusian export, potash, have also been dropped. This engagement indicates a shift in diplomatic relations, as Lukashenko seeks to re-establish ties with the West. However, questions about what the US aims to achieve through this agreement remain ambiguous, particularly in the context of its relationship with Russia.
The ex-prisoners were ultimately received in Vilnius, Lithuania, where a crowd awaited them with their own familial and political ties. Although Kolesnikova's reunion was delayed as she was redirected to Ukraine along with others, the atmosphere remained one of hope and anticipation. Ales Bialiatski emerged from the US embassy to cheers, emphasizing the importance of activism in securing further releases. Optimism and activism, he proclaimed while lifting the red and white opposition flag, a symbol of resilience against oppression.
