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4w ago

U.S. Secures Release of Wrongfully Detained American from Belarus

Youras Ziankovich, jailed on fabricated coup charges, becomes the 47th American repatriated under Trump administration efforts.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaks during a cabinet meeting at the White House, Wednesday, April 30, 2025, in Washington, as President Donald Trump look on. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
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Overview

  • Youras Ziankovich, a dual U.S.-Belarusian citizen, was arrested in Moscow in 2021 and sentenced to 13½ years in Belarus on unfounded coup-plot charges.
  • The United States secured his release without a prisoner swap, transferring him to Lithuania with assistance from U.S. and Lithuanian officials.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio credited President Trump's leadership and diplomatic efforts for Ziankovich's freedom, marking the 47th wrongful detention case resolved since January 2025.
  • Ziankovich’s wife, Alena Dzenisavets, thanked advocacy groups and U.S. officials for their role in securing his release after 1,480 days in detention.
  • Belarus, under President Alexander Lukashenko, continues to face criticism for political repression, with over 1,200 political prisoners still detained.