In a significant development for Belarusian politics, several opposition figures, including prominent leader Siarhei Tsikhanouski, were released from prison on Saturday. This breakthrough followed negotiations led by U.S. special envoy Keith Kellogg, highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing political tensions in the region.
Emotional reunion and gratitude
Following his release, Tsikhanouski’s wife, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who emerged as a key opposition figure during the 2020 presidential elections, shared a heartfelt moment on social media. She posted a video on X, showing the emotional reunion with her husband and expressing her gratitude towards U.S. authorities for their role in facilitating his release.
Background of the political turmoil
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko announced the pardons after a meeting with Kellogg earlier in the week, signaling a possible shift in the government’s approach to dissent. Tsikhanouski, a former blogger and the main contender against Lukashenko in the disputed 2020 elections, had been incarcerated since May 2020. His arrest sparked widespread protests, although these movements ultimately failed to dislodge Lukashenko from power.
“Thank you to all who supported us,” Tsikhanouskaya said, reflecting the sentiments of many who have rallied for political change in Belarus.
Alongside Tsikhanouski, other notable prisoners released included journalist Igor Karney and academic Natalia Dulina, as reported by Russian media outlet RBC. Kellogg’s visit to Belarus was strategically organized not only to advocate for the release of political prisoners but also to draw Belarus closer to Western nations, fostering an environment that could facilitate peace discussions between Russia and Ukraine.