John Col hopes Belarus will free hundreds of political prisoners
U.S. special representative says diplomacy produced a deal to free 800 political prisoners in return for limited sanction relief, and he will return to Minsk next month.
John Col said he is hopeful that Belarus will free hundreds of political prisoners after recent diplomatic contacts in Minsk. He told reporters the talks have already led to an agreement to release 800 political prisoners in return for an easing of some U.S. sanctions on Minsk.
Col said he will travel to Minsk again next month and aims to secure the release of a large number of detainees. He described the upcoming trip as an opportunity to press Belarusian authorities for further concessions on the issue.
Diplomatic push and the numbers
According to Col, the diplomatic effort convinced Belarusian officials to free 800 political prisoners as part of a package that would see certain American sanctions relaxed. He framed the deal as a step toward reducing tensions between Minsk and Washington.
Col (79) was appointed last year by U.S. President Donald Trump as a special representative tasked with negotiating on the matter. In his role he has engaged directly with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko in talks focused on political detainees and bilateral disputes.
Observers say the apparent deal could ease pressure on Belarus if implemented, but they also warn that follow-through and verification will be key to any durable change.
Photo: press material from the event
