German Citizen Sentenced to Death in Belarus for Terrorism Charges

A Belarusian human rights group reports that a German citizen, identified as Rico Krieger, has been sentenced to death for terrorism and other charges. Belarus, the only European nation that still executes prisoners, has faced widespread criticism for its harsh practices. The German Foreign Ministry and Embassy are providing consular support.

A Belarusian human rights group announced on Friday that a German citizen has been sentenced to death for terrorism and related charges connected to an explosion aimed at destabilizing public order.

Belarus, the sole European country still practicing executions, has faced extensive criticism. Convicts are typically informed about the rejection of their appeals before being executed by a shot to the back of the head.

The German Foreign Ministry acknowledged the case and stated that it, along with the German Embassy in Minsk, is offering consular support to the individual involved, though details about the person's identity were initially withheld.

The respected human rights organization Viasna, whose founder is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate currently imprisoned, identified the man sentenced as Rico Krieger, a German Red Cross medical worker. Krieger was sentenced in late June in a closed trial for mercenary activity, terrorism, and establishing an extremist group.

According to Viasna, the verdict stated he was guilty of causing an explosion intended to influence governmental decisions, intimidate the public, and destabilize order, although the details of the alleged explosion remain undisclosed.

The German Foreign Ministry reiterated its stance against the death penalty, labeling it as a cruel and inhuman punishment.

(With inputs from agencies.)