German National Sentenced to Death in Belarus Amid Rising Tensions

A German national, Rico Krieger, has been sentenced to death in Belarus on charges of terrorism and mercenary activity. The German Foreign Ministry is in intensive talks with Belarusian authorities to support Krieger, who has been in custody since November 2023. Belarus is the only European country still applying the death penalty.

A German national named Rico Krieger has been sentenced to death in Belarus on charges related to terrorism and mercenary activity, the German foreign ministry announced on Friday. Berlin is currently in intense discussions with Belarusian authorities concerning his fate.

Belarusian human rights organization Viasna, citing unnamed sources, reported Krieger's sentencing, noting he had been in custody since November 2023 and was convicted on June 24. The German Foreign Ministry and the embassy in Minsk are providing consular support and working diligently on his behalf.

Belarus, under President Alexander Lukashenko and a close ally of Russia, is the only country in Europe that still enforces the death penalty. Krieger's charges are reportedly linked to the Kalinouski Regiment, an anti-government group supporting Ukraine. The unfolding events raise concerns amid the ongoing tensions in the region. Additional reporting by Reuters.

(With inputs from agencies.)