Lukashenko Pardons Political Prisoners Amidst Rising International Pressure

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has pardoned 13 political prisoners, including a trade union leader and a journalist with a brain tumour. The move, portrayed as humanitarian, comes amidst rising international pressure and ongoing repression. Human rights activists highlight the continued imprisonment of many others, including notable figures like Nobel laureate Ales Bialiatski.

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has released 13 political prisoners, including veteran trade union leader Vasil Berasnieu and former journalist Kseniya Lutskina who has a brain tumour, according to human rights activists.

Lukashenko's pardons have been showcased as acts of compassion on state media, where former detainees expressed gratitude. However, critics argue that the releases, influenced by international pressure, do not signal a reduction in repression, with numerous other political prisoners still behind bars.

The rate of political prosecutions in Belarus is reportedly escalating, with July seeing 170 convictions. International diplomatic efforts continue to push for more releases, highlighting names like Nobel Peace Prize winner Ales Bialiatski among those still imprisoned.

(With inputs from agencies.)