Most of the Belarusian citizens recently released by the regime of Alexander Lukashenko are in Ukraine. Among them are one of the most prominent political prisoners, Maria Kolesnikova, and former presidential candidate Viktor Babaryko. This was reported by the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War.
In total, Ukraine received 114 civilians from Belarus, including five Ukrainians, who were reported earlier.
The statement of the Coordination Headquarters states:
“As a result of previous agreements and fruitful negotiations with the Belarusian side, as well as With the assistance of American partners and the work of our headquarters, 114 civilians were transferred to Ukraine, including Ukrainians who were held in the territory of the Republic of Belarus.
Among the representatives of the Belarusian opposition who are now in Ukraine are Viktor Babaryko, his associate Maria Kolesnikova, and the editor-in-chief of the TUT.by portal Maryna Zolotova.
As can be seen in the published photos, the released citizens were personally met at the border by the head of the Main Intelligence Directorate, Kyrylo Budanov.
The Coordination Headquarters reported that after providing the necessary medical care, the released Belarusian citizens will be transported to Poland and Lithuania at their own request.
Earlier, Lukashenko’s regime announced the release of a total of 123 political prisoners, noting that this took place “within the framework of agreements with the US president and at his request” in connection with the lifting of US sanctions against Belarus.
On December 13, it became known that the United States of America was lifting sanctions on Belarusian potash. Earlier, on November 4, the US Treasury Department eased some sanctions against Belarus, lifting restrictions on the national airline and allowing operations related to Lukashenko’s personal plane.
