Ukraine, together with partners, has transported over 100 former political prisoners from Belarus to the EU
Ukraine has carried out a humanitarian operation to transport 109 former political prisoners from Belarus to Poland and Lithuania. This initiative was implemented in cooperation with international partners.
The former political prisoners, including well-known opposition figures, journalists, and public activists who have long been under the repressive measures of Alexander Lukashenko’s regime, have now found refuge in European Union countries. Some decided to stay in Poland, while others continued their journey to Lithuania. In Warsaw, they were warmly welcomed by relatives, volunteers, journalists, and diplomats.
Ukraine’s Coordination Headquarters for the Release of Prisoners of War noted that this operation became a reality thanks to cooperation with governmental and international partners. Ukraine expressed gratitude to the governments of European states, the USA, and others for their support and solidarity.
It is worth mentioning that on December 13, 123 people, including five Ukrainians, were freed from Belarusian prisons due to the active role of the USA and international intelligence. Among those released were well-known opposition figures Maria Kolesnikova and Viktor Babariko. Following this, the United States lifted sanctions on Belarusian potash.
| Country | Number of Political Prisoners |
|---|---|
| Poland | Part of the released |
| Lithuania | Rest of the released |
