Summary
Belarus pardoned 25 prisoners, aiming to improve relations with the United States. The pardons follow US calls for the release of those prosecuted on political charges. Some released prisoners were identified as political detainees by human rights groups.
Key Facts
- Belarus pardoned 25 prisoners in an effort to improve ties with the USA.
- The release follows US President Trump's appeal to free people held on political charges.
- State news reported 12 women and 13 men were pardoned.
- Human rights organizations say over 1,000 political prisoners remain in Belarus.
- The Belarusian president, Alexander Lukashenko, was re-elected for a seventh term this year.
- The USA has shown interest in reopening its embassy in Minsk.
- Recently, 52 political prisoners were released, including a staff member from the EU's Minsk delegation and journalists.
- Opposition leader Mikola Statkevich was returned to prison after refusing deportation.
