Exclusive: Trump administration seeks major Belarus prisoner release

The Trump administration is reportedly pursuing the release of more than 100 political prisoners from Belarus, in what could be the largest such deal yet, three sources familiar with the discussions told Reuters.

The talks come amid a cautious thaw in relations between Washington and Minsk, the Russian ally long criticised for its human rights record.

While Belarus has freed dozens of detainees in several waves since President Donald Trump took office in January, U.S. officials are now seeking a single agreement to secure the release of over 100 prisoners, the sources said.

In September, Belarus freed 52 prisoners, including prominent political figures, but human rights groups say more than 1,000 remain behind bars. It is not yet clear which prisoners could be released in the proposed deal or when it might occur.

The initiative is part of a broader U.S. strategy to pull Belarus marginally away from Moscow’s influence, diplomats said. John Coale, named earlier this month by Trump as special envoy to Belarus, has been a key figure in the negotiations.

The European Union has expressed scepticism, keeping sanctions in place and warning against any rapprochement that might embolden Belarus’ alignment with Russia. In recent months, Lukashenko has continued politically motivated arrests while also releasing foreign detainees, including 31 Ukrainians.

Washington has lifted some Belarus-related sanctions and signalled readiness for further engagement, though precise incentives for Minsk remain unclear.

“The United States stands ready for additional engagement with Belarus that advances U.S. interests and will continue efforts to free political prisoners in Belarus,” a State Department spokesperson said.

The proposed release marks a significant moment in the delicate diplomacy surrounding Belarus, a country that has long been a strategic ally of Russia and a source of tension for NATO.

By Aghakazim Guliyev