Belarus pardons key opposition activist, among 123 prisoners, in exchange for US sanction relief

Sky NewsSaturday, December 13, 2025 at 2:32:00 PM
Belarus pardons key opposition activist, among 123 prisoners, in exchange for US sanction relief
  • Belarus has pardoned 123 prisoners, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Ales Bialiatski and opposition leader Maria Kolesnikova, as part of a deal with the United States that resulted in the lifting of certain sanctions against the country. This significant move marks a potential thaw in relations between Belarus and the U.S.
  • The release of these political prisoners is a crucial step for Belarus, as it may signal a shift in the government's approach to dissent and international relations, particularly in light of ongoing diplomatic negotiations with the U.S.
  • This development reflects broader themes of political repression and the struggle for democracy in Belarus, where activists have faced significant challenges under President Alexander Lukashenko's regime. The release has been celebrated by supporters, highlighting the ongoing fight for political freedoms in the region.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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