US Envoy in Belarus Secures Release of 25 Political Prisoners

US Special Envoy for Belarus John Coale announced that his recent talks with Belarusian authorities have led to the opening of 25 prison doors — meaning 25 political prisoners were released. Coale says he intends to return to Belarus within the coming period, citing hope of securing freedom for still more detainees, though he noted that any progress would not come without reciprocal demands from Minsk.

Diplomatic Engagement

Coale is a special envoy appointed by US President Donald Trump to handle Belarus affairs. His visits represent one of the few active diplomatic channels between the United States and the Lukashenko government, which has held thousands of political prisoners since the 2020 crackdown on protests.

The envoy expressed optimism about continued engagement but acknowledged that further progress would depend on negotiations with the Belarusian side. Hundreds of political prisoners are believed to still be held in Belarus.