US envoy hopes for Belarus prisoner release next month

U.S. special envoy John Coale expressed optimism about securing the release of hundreds more political prisoners from Belarus next month, with a potential handover in mid-September. Coale, who has been instrumental in previous releases, stated his intention to visit Belarus again to finalize the deal.

Coale's diplomatic efforts have already facilitated the release of approximately 700 to 800 individuals from Belarusian custody. These releases were reportedly made in exchange for the U.S. easing some sanctions imposed on Minsk. Coale indicated his goal is to bring the total number of freed prisoners closer to one thousand.

Coale, 79, was appointed by President Trump last year to lead negotiations with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. His approach has involved extensive talks and personal engagement. Meanwhile, Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, who is based outside Belarus, had previously informed Reuters of a delay in U.S. efforts to persuade Lukashenko to release more political prisoners, though she did not disclose the reasons at the time.