Minsk: In a surprising turn of diplomatic engagement, Belarus announced the release of 52 prisoners, including 14 foreign nationals, after former U.S. President Donald Trump directly intervened, appealing to President Alexander Lukashenko for their freedom. This development comes amid growing international pressure on Minsk over its human rights record and strained relations with the West.
The release was facilitated following a personal letter sent by Trump to Lukashenko, urging the immediate release of individuals he described as “hostages.” In tandem with the prisoners’ liberation, the United States agreed to partially ease sanctions against Belarus, notably allowing the national airline, Belavia, to continue operations and procure essential aircraft components. This move signals a cautious but notable shift toward diplomatic reconciliation between Minsk and Washington.
The prisoners, hailing from countries including Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, France, the United Kingdom, and Germany, were flown to Lithuania under the supervision of a U.S. delegation led by John Coale, a deputy assistant to Trump. The operation highlighted the complex international coordination behind the release and underscored Trump’s active role in high-profile diplomatic interventions post-presidency.
President Lukashenko described the gesture as a step toward fostering dialogue and peaceful international relations. He praised Trump for his efforts in mediation and indicated openness to broader negotiations, which could potentially include discussions about reopening the U.S. embassy in Minsk a facility that has been closed since February 2022. The meeting between Coale and Lukashenko in the Belarusian capital was marked by a ceremonial exchange of Trump’s letter, signaling goodwill and renewed diplomatic engagement.
Despite these positive developments, the release of 52 prisoners represents only a fraction of the approximately 1,300–1,400 detainees reportedly held for political reasons, prompting criticism from human rights advocates. Questions remain regarding the status of prominent political figures, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Ales Bialiatski. Critics argue that Lukashenko may be leveraging selective releases to soften international scrutiny while maintaining tight domestic control.
This development, nevertheless, marks a significant moment in Belarus’s foreign relations, demonstrating the potential influence of private diplomacy in resolving long-standing tensions. Observers note that it may pave the way for further easing of sanctions and increased engagement between Minsk and Western powers, contingent on continued cooperation and transparency.