US Envoy Meets Lukashenko on Prisoner Releases

U.S. presidential envoy John Coale met with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in Minsk on Thursday, as Washington continues efforts to secure the release of political prisoners in the Russia-allied nation.

The meeting, held in a government building, focused on bilateral relations, including the possible resumption of normal embassy operations and the freeing of individuals designated as political prisoners by human rights groups. Belarusian state media released video footage showing Lukashenko greeting Coale with an embrace. Ahead of the discussions, Lukashenko stated, "We are discussing our bilateral relations, ranging from the resumption of normal embassy operations to the release of so-called political prisoners. Although we do not have such a designation." He also expressed readiness to address broader issues, including the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, noting Belarus's ties with Iran amid regional conflicts.

Human rights organizations, including the Viasna center, estimate more than 1,100 people remain imprisoned in Belarus on politically motivated charges, many detained following the disputed 2020 presidential election that sparked mass protests...