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Lukashenko Pardons 30 More Political Prisoners in Belarus

The Belarusian president's latest clemency move is viewed as an attempt to soften his image ahead of the 2025 elections.

Overview

  • This marks the third batch of pardons in three months, totaling 78 releases since July.
  • Human rights groups report that political repression continues, with new arrests matching the pace of releases.
  • Opposition leaders welcome the pardons but stress the need for ongoing international pressure.
  • Among those still imprisoned are prominent figures like Nobel laureate Ales Bialiatski and activist Maria Kalesnikava.
  • Analysts believe the pardons are aimed at improving Belarus' international standing before the next presidential election.