Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko announced on Friday the pardons of 31 Ukrainians, which was framed as part of a broader political agreement with U.S. President Donald Trump. The move comes following a deal in which Washington partially lifted sanctions on Belarus state carrier Belavia, allowing it to service and buy parts for its fleet, which includes Boeing aircraft.
The decision to pardon the Ukrainians has sparked mixed reactions from both countries’ political spheres. While some in Belarus see it as a demonstration of flexibility in international relations, others in Ukraine express skepticism over the motives behind the pardons. Meanwhile, the easing of sanctions on Belavia is expected to provide a financial boost to the carrier, which has faced significant challenges due to international sanctions.
Analysts suggest that the agreement reflects a complex interplay of interests between Belarus and the U.S. The pardons may be seen as a gesture of goodwill, but the broader implications for regional stability and international relations remain a subject of debate among experts.