Belarus Frees Political Prisoners in Rare Amnesty

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has recently released at least 10 political prisoners, including a cancer-stricken opposition leader, following pressure from human rights groups. Despite these releases, over 1,400 political prisoners remain incarcerated, with many arrested during the 2020 protests against Lukashenko's disputed reelection. The amnesty, part of Belarus's liberation anniversary, is criticized as insufficient by activists who highlight ongoing repression. Opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya cautiously welcomed the releases but emphasized the plight of numerous remaining political prisoners, some facing critical health conditions and inadequate medical care in detention.