Archive · 22 Aug 2025
Belarus Leader Dampens Hopes After Trump's Prisoner Release Appeal
After a call from former US President Trump, Belarusian leader Lukashenko has made it clear that he likely won't be freeing many political prisoners.
Trump had asked for the release of about 1,300 prisoners, a move that could thaw relations.
However, Lukashenko, who has been in power since 1994, doesn't see the prisoners as political and says they are "bandits".
He is wary of freeing them, as many were arrested after a disputed election and he fears this could spark protests.
Trump's appeal has created a tough situation for Lukashenko, who is allied with Russia but faces Western sanctions.
Lukashenko has warned the US against speaking with the opposition.
Belarusian President Lukashenko dampened hopes for mass prisoner release following Trump's appeal.
Trump requested the release of approximately 1,300 prisoners during a call with Lukashenko.
Lukashenko views the prisoners, including political figures, as a threat and calls them "bandits".
Lukashenko stated he would halt dialogue with the U.S. if they engage with his political opponents.
The Belarusian opposition is in contact with the US State Department and White House officials.
- Who
- Belarusian President Lukashenko and former US President Trump.
- What
- Lukashenko dampened hopes for mass prisoner release following Trump's appeal.
- When
- Friday, after Trump's phone call last week.
- Where
- Belarus.
- Why
- Trump requested the release of prisoners, but Lukashenko is hesitant to release them.
Belarusian Government
Belarusian Opposition
Prisoner Status
Belarusian Government
Prisoners are criminals.
Belarusian Opposition
Prisoners are political.
U.S. Dialogue
Belarusian Government
Dialogue with the U.S. will cease if they engage with the opposition.
Belarusian Opposition
The U.S. will continue to talk with the opposition.
- Belarusian President
- Alexander Lukashenko
- US President Request
- Release of prisoners
- Number of Political Prisoners (approximate)
- 1,300
- Lukashenko's View
- Prisoners are "bandits"
- Opposition contact
- Tsikhanouskaya's camp contacted US officials