Fact Check: "Released prisoners taken to Lithuania after their freedom."
What We Know
On June 21, 2025, Belarus released 14 political prisoners, including prominent opposition leader Sergei Tikhanovsky, following a diplomatic effort by the United States. The release was confirmed by Tikhanovsky's wife, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, and the Lithuanian government, which stated that the freed prisoners were now "safe in Lithuania" and receiving proper care (CBS News, RFE/RL). Among those released was journalist Ihar Karnei, who had been sentenced to three years in prison on charges related to extremism (RFE/RL).
The Lithuanian Foreign Minister, Kestutis Budrys, reported that while none of the released prisoners required emergency medical assistance, one individual did need urgent care due to the difficult conditions they faced while imprisoned (CBS News). This release is seen as a significant gesture amidst improving relations between Belarus and the U.S., particularly following a meeting between U.S. officials and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko (CBS News).
Analysis
The claim that released prisoners were taken to Lithuania after their freedom is substantiated by multiple credible sources. Both CBS News and RFE/RL confirm that the 14 prisoners, including Tikhanovsky and Karnei, were transferred to Lithuania, where they received care (CBS News, RFE/RL).
The reliability of these sources is high; CBS News is a well-established news organization with a reputation for factual reporting, while RFE/RL specializes in providing news and analysis in regions where free press is restricted, making it a credible source for information on Belarusian affairs. Both outlets reported on the same event, corroborating the details of the prisoners' release and their subsequent relocation to Lithuania.
Furthermore, the context of the release—linked to U.S. diplomatic efforts—adds credibility to the reports, as it aligns with the broader narrative of international relations involving Belarus and the U.S. (CBS News).
Conclusion
The claim that released prisoners were taken to Lithuania after their freedom is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that the 14 political prisoners, including Tikhanovsky and Karnei, were indeed transferred to Lithuania following their release from Belarusian custody.
