Belarus has released 52 political prisoners, including 14 foreign nationals, following a direct appeal from the United States. In a reciprocal move aimed at fostering improved bilateral relations, the U.S. has subsequently eased certain sanctions on Belarus's national airline, Belavia.
The prisoner release marks a significant step in Belarus's efforts to recalibrate its international standing and mend ties with Western nations. Among those freed were veteran opposition activist Mikalai Statkevich and journalist Ihar Losik, who had been detained since December 2021. This action follows a previous release of dissident figure Siarhei Tsikhanouski in June 2025.
In response to this humanitarian step, the United States announced the easing of specific sanctions impacting Belavia. This adjustment will permit the airline to maintain and acquire necessary components for its aircraft fleet, a move intended as a confidence-building measure. The U.S. envoy involved in the discussions, John Coale, confirmed the decision, characterizing it as a step towards "constructive engagement."
The history of U.S.-Belarus relations has been marked by periods of tension and sanctions, with the United States first imposing measures in 2006 following presidential elections criticized for lacking democratic standards. While the easing of sanctions on Belavia is a tangible step, human rights organizations note that approximately 1,200 political prisoners remain incarcerated in Belarus, underscoring ongoing challenges to human rights and democratic freedoms within the country.
The sanctions relief for Belavia, which had been under U.S. and EU restrictions since 2021 due to its alleged role in the forced diversion of a Ryanair flight, allows the airline to service and purchase components for its existing fleet. This development occurs against a backdrop of continued widespread detentions and a significant number of individuals still held for political reasons.