In June 2025, Belarus released 14 political prisoners, including prominent blogger Siarhei Tsikhanouski. This action followed a visit by a senior U.S. official, signaling a potential shift in international relations. The release occurred after a meeting between Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Keith Kellogg.
Tsikhanouski was imprisoned in 2020 after announcing his intention to challenge Lukashenko in the presidential election. He arrived in Vilnius, Lithuania, with the other released individuals. His wife, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, expressed joy but highlighted the continued imprisonment of over 1,100 political prisoners.
The Belarusian government stated the release was a response to a request from U.S. President Donald Trump. Analysts suggest this move may aim to reduce international isolation and soften sanctions. Despite the release, many dissidents, including Nobel Peace Prize laureate Ales Bialiatski, remain incarcerated.