Belarus freed 52 political prisoners, including journalists and foreign nationals, following the US lifting sanctions on Belavia, its national airline. This action comes amidst ongoing tensions with the West over Belarus's human rights record and its support of Russia's war in Ukraine. The release follows a meeting between a U.S. envoy and Belarusian President Lukashenko. However, over 1,000 political prisoners remain in Belarusian jails, raising concerns about the deal's long-term impact and whether it grants undue leverage to Belarus and Russia.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.