US envoy seeks release of more political prisoners in Belarus

U.S. special envoy John Coale expressed optimism regarding the release of political prisoners in Belarus, stating he aims to secure the release of hundreds more individuals by mid-September. Coale plans to travel to Belarus in person to finalize the negotiations.

Previous diplomatic efforts have already resulted in the release of approximately 700 to 800 political prisoners. These releases are reportedly linked to a deal involving the easing of certain U.S. sanctions against Minsk. Coale indicated his goal is to increase the total number of released prisoners to 1,000 soon.

Coale was appointed by President Trump to lead negotiations with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. While Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya previously noted delays in these efforts, Coale remains confident in his upcoming mission.