Belarusian opposition figure released from Lukashenko's prison. 'I prayed that God would take me out of there'

Belarusian opposition activist Ales Byalyatski has been released from prison after serving over five years, following diplomatic negotiations between Belarus and the United States. Byalyatski, who was imprisoned in June 2020, was freed in December and subsequently moved to Lithuania.

“

I thought that after three days of release they would help me, and then I would have to manage on my own. But I met with a huge wave of solidarity.

Upon his release, Byalyatski found himself embraced by a wave of solidarity. "I thought that after three days of release they would help me, and then I would have to manage on my own. But I met with a huge wave of solidarity," he stated. Dozens of Belarusian and international human rights organizations have provided support, assisting him in adapting to his new life and ensuring his family's well-being. This support has also accelerated the publication of his book.

Byalyatski, who has experienced four lengthy detentions in Belarusian prisons, finds Vilnius a comfortable base due to its proximity to Belarus. He views his current situation as divinely orchestrated, preparing him for a potential return to his homeland. He shared the profound impact his absence had on his son, who was only two years old when Byalyatski was first arrested. "I explain that I was captured by bad people who put me in jail for being Belarusian," Byalyatski said, adding that his son perceives the country as being "in captivity" and needing liberation.

“

I explain that I was captured by bad people who put me in jail for being Belarusian. I explain that our country is currently in captivity, but we must liberate it.

His son's strong feelings extend to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, whom he considers a "bandit." The child has even learned Lithuanian to express this sentiment to his peers. Byalyatski also reflected on the conditions in the Shklov penal colony, where Lukashenko once worked as a guard. He described the system as designed to instill fear and control, with seemingly "decent" conditions in the general population serving as a contrast to the severe punishment of solitary confinement.

“

He considers him a bandit. He has even learned Lithuanian 'Lukašenka yra banditas' to explain to his Lithuanian peers.