Belarus has released 123 prisoners, including notable figures such as Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski and key opposition leader Maria Kalesnikava. The release, announced on December 13, 2025, is part of an agreement with the United States that will see the lifting of sanctions on the Belarusian potash industry.
The Belarusian government stated that the released individuals faced various charges, including “espionage, terrorism, and extremism.” Among those freed, 114 were transferred to Ukraine, while the remaining nine, including Bialiatski, were sent to Lithuania. This move marks a significant step in the diplomatic relations between Belarus and the U.S.
U.S. Special Envoy for Belarus John Coale confirmed that the United States will lift sanctions against Belarusian potash producer Belaruskali, one of the largest state-owned enterprises in Belarus. Coale emphasized the goal of normalizing relations, indicating that “more sanctions will be lifted” in the future.
Significant Releases and Reactions
The release of Bialiatski and Kalesnikava has drawn international attention. Bialiatski expressed his gratitude upon arrival in Lithuania, stating, “being released means meeting with family, meeting with friends and continuing my work as a human rights defender.” His release comes after years of imprisonment, which drew condemnation from various human rights organizations.
Kalesnikava, who was a campaign manager for Viktar Babaryka, also gained prominence during the 2020 presidential election. Following Babaryka’s arrest, Kalesnikava took up the mantle of leadership within the opposition movement. Shortly after her release, Kalesnikava was seen at the Ukrainian border, reuniting with Babaryka and another former prisoner, Maxim Znak.
Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya welcomed Bialiatski’s release, highlighting the ongoing struggle for freedom and democracy in Belarus. “This is a victory for all those who have fought for justice,” she stated.
This development has been viewed as a positive signal towards potential diplomatic negotiations between Belarus and Western nations, particularly the United States. The lifting of sanctions could provide economic relief for Belarus, which has been grappling with international isolation and economic challenges.
The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, as further actions from both Belarus and the U.S. could shape the future of relations between the two nations.
