Fact Check: Syarhei Tsikhanouski freed after nearly five years in Belarusian prison.

Fact Check: "Syarhei Tsikhanouski freed after nearly five years in Belarusian prison."

What We Know

Syarhei Tsikhanouski, a prominent Belarusian opposition leader, has been released from prison after serving nearly five years. His wife, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, confirmed his release in a post on social media, stating, "My husband Siarhei is free!" and expressing gratitude towards various international figures for their support in securing his release (Reuters, Al Jazeera). Tsikhanouski was initially arrested in 2020 after announcing his candidacy against President Alexander Lukashenko in the presidential elections, which were widely condemned as fraudulent (Sky News). He was sentenced to 18 years in prison on charges that many observers deemed politically motivated (Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty).

Analysis

The claim that Syarhei Tsikhanouski has been freed after nearly five years in prison is substantiated by multiple reputable sources. His release occurred on June 21, 2025, and was part of a larger release of 14 political prisoners, which included individuals from various nationalities (Al Jazeera, Sky News). The timing of the release coincided with a visit from U.S. special envoy Keith Kellogg, suggesting a diplomatic effort may have influenced this decision (Reuters, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty).

The sources reporting on this event are credible and well-established news organizations, including Reuters, Al Jazeera, and Sky News. They provide consistent details regarding Tsikhanouski's imprisonment, the circumstances of his release, and the broader context of political repression in Belarus. The reliability of these sources is reinforced by their history of covering Belarusian politics and human rights issues.

Conclusion

The claim that "Syarhei Tsikhanouski was freed after nearly five years in Belarusian prison" is True. His release has been confirmed by multiple credible sources, and the details surrounding his imprisonment and subsequent release align with known facts about the political situation in Belarus.

Sources

1. Belarus opposition leader Tsikhanouski freed from jail, his wife says
2. Belarus opposition leader Siarhei Tsikhanouski freed from jail, says ...
3. Belarus opposition leader Siarhei Tsikhanouski freed from jail after ...
4. Belarus Releases 14 Prisoners Including Opposition Politician ...
5. Belarusian opposition leader Siarhei Tsikhanouski released from prison ...