The Belarusian government announced the release of 123 prisoners on December 13, 2025, a move that includes significant figures such as Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski and prominent opposition leader Maria Kalesnikava. This decision is part of an agreement established with the United States, which involves lifting sanctions on Belarusian industries, particularly the potash sector.
According to a statement released by Belarusian officials, the prisoners were held on various charges, including espionage, terrorism, and extremism. The release is seen as a critical step towards normalizing relations between Belarus and the U.S., with U.S. Special Envoy for Belarus John Coale confirming that more sanctions will be lifted in the future.
Ales Bialiatski, a well-known human rights advocate, expressed gratitude upon his release. Speaking from Lithuania, he stated, “Being released means meeting with family, meeting with friends, and continuing my work as a human rights defender.” His release is particularly significant given his long-standing commitment to promoting civil liberties in Belarus.
Following their release, 114 of the detainees were transferred to Ukraine, while the remaining nine, including Bialiatski, were sent to Lithuania. This transfer took place amid an atmosphere of renewed hope for political change in Belarus, which has been under the authoritarian rule of President Alexander Lukashenko.
Kalesnikava, who served as the campaign manager for Viktar Babaryka, was also among those released. Babaryka, who was imprisoned while running against Lukashenko during the 2020 elections, remains a key figure in the Belarusian opposition. Kalesnikava took over the leadership of the opposition campaign after his arrest.
Upon her release, Kalesnikava was seen reuniting with Babaryka and fellow activist Maxim Znak at the Ukrainian border, highlighting the ongoing solidarity among Belarusian political prisoners and their supporters.
The U.S. government’s decision to lift sanctions on the Belarusian potash producer Belaruskali is a significant development, as this company is one of the largest state-owned enterprises in Belarus. The sanctions had been imposed due to concerns over human rights abuses and the government’s support for Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
As the international community watches closely, this release of political prisoners may be a turning point in Belarusian politics, possibly paving the way for greater dialogue between the U.S. and Belarus. The implications of these developments could resonate far beyond the borders of Belarus, impacting regional stability and international relations.
The release of these prisoners marks a notable moment in the ongoing struggle for democracy and human rights in Belarus, with activists and leaders hoping that it will lead to a more open political environment in the country.
