Fact Check: Kellogg's visit to Minsk directly facilitated the release of these prisoners.

Fact Check: "Kellogg's visit to Minsk directly facilitated the release of these prisoners."

What We Know

On June 21, 2025, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko pardoned several political prisoners, including Siarhei Tsikhanouski, the husband of exiled opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. This release occurred shortly after a visit from U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg, who was in Minsk for discussions aimed at easing tensions between Belarus and the West (Euronews). Reports indicate that the release was part of a U.S.-brokered deal, suggesting a direct correlation between Kellogg's visit and the pardons (PBS).

In total, 14 political prisoners were released, which included notable figures who had been imprisoned under politically motivated charges since the 2020 protests following a disputed election (Yahoo News). The timing of the pardons has led many analysts to view this as a strategic move by Lukashenko to improve relations with the West, particularly in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions related to Russia's actions in Ukraine (MSN).

Analysis

The claim that Kellogg's visit directly facilitated the release of prisoners is supported by multiple credible sources. The Euronews report explicitly states that the release was brokered during Kellogg's visit, indicating a direct link between his diplomatic efforts and the subsequent pardons. Additionally, the Associated Press corroborates this by stating that Tsikhanouski and others were freed following Kellogg's rare visit, further reinforcing the connection.

However, it is essential to consider the context of Lukashenko's actions. The Belarusian president has been known to release small numbers of political prisoners periodically, often as a gesture to ease international scrutiny or to improve diplomatic relations (Euronews). While this pattern suggests that the release of prisoners may not solely be a result of Kellogg's visit, the timing and the specific mention of U.S. involvement in the negotiations lend significant weight to the claim that Kellogg's presence was a critical factor in this instance.

The sources used in this analysis are generally reliable, with established reputations for reporting on international affairs. Euronews and PBS are recognized news outlets, while MSN and Yahoo News provide additional coverage that aligns with the primary reports. However, it is also important to note that the political motivations of Lukashenko and the broader geopolitical context may influence how these events are reported and interpreted.

Conclusion

Verdict: True. The evidence strongly supports the claim that Kellogg's visit to Minsk directly facilitated the release of political prisoners. The timing of the pardons, the acknowledgment of U.S. involvement in the negotiations, and the corroborating reports from multiple credible sources all indicate that Kellogg's diplomatic efforts played a significant role in this development.

Fact Check: Kellogg's visit to Minsk directly facilitated the release of these prisoners.