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Belarus frees political prisoners in exchange for easing of US sanctions

September 11, 2025

Belarus has released 52 political prisoners as part of a deal with the Trump administration, though over 1,000 remain detained. In exchange, the US is easing sanctions on Belarusian airline Belavia, allowing it to purchase airplane parts. The release comes amid joint Belarus-Russia military exercises that have prompted Poland to close its border with Belarus and Latvia to restrict its airspace.

Who is affected

  • 52 released political prisoners including trade union leaders, journalists, activists, and philosopher Vladimir Matskevich
  • Over 1,000 political prisoners who remain in Belarusian jails
  • UK-Belarus dual citizen Julia Fenner (reportedly released)
  • Belarusian airline Belavia
  • Families and friends of the released prisoners
  • Belarus citizens still living under Lukashenko's authoritarian rule

What action is being taken

  • Belarus is releasing 52 political prisoners in what Lukashenko describes as a "humanitarian gesture"
  • The US is lifting some sanctions on Belarusian airline Belavia
  • Poland is closing its borders with Belarus due to the Zapad-2025 military exercises
  • Latvia is closing part of its airspace
  • Belarus and Russia are conducting joint military exercises
  • Discussions are underway about reopening the US embassy in Minsk

Why it matters

  • This represents a diplomatic breakthrough between Belarus and the US after years of sanctions and isolation
  • The prisoner release provides freedom for dozens of political prisoners, though many remain detained
  • Belarus seeks to rebuild economic ties with the West after being hit by sanctions related to Russia's invasion of Ukraine
  • The timing coincides with military exercises that are increasing regional tensions
  • The deal represents a shift in Belarus's relationship with Western nations while maintaining its alliance with Russia
  • The prisoner release is part of Belarus's broader effort to improve relations with the EU and US, having released over 300 prisoners since July 2023

What's next

  • The US embassy in Minsk is expected to reopen "in the very near future" according to Trump special envoy John Coale
  • Discussions will continue about establishing trade relationships between the US and Belarus

Read full article from source: BBC