US helped Ukraine secure release of civilians from Belarus - Ukraine's intel
Photo: Andrii Yusov (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Ukrainians returned from Belarus were mostly detained for their pro-Ukrainian stance. The leading role in their release was played by US President Donald Trump, according to the Deputy Head of the Coordination Headquarters on the Treatment of Prisoners of War and spokesperson for the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, Andrii Yusov.
"Most of the people were detained for their pro-Ukrainian position. They were accused of helping and supporting Ukraine. This is indeed an important event because we understand that this is not the end, and more will follow. I would like to especially thank the leading assistance and role of the United States and President Donald Trump," Yusov said.
He also emphasized the need to separately note the constructive position of the Belarusian leadership. The operation also involved the US President’s envoy to Belarus, John C. Cole, and the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European Affairs, Christopher Smith.
According to him, the preparation was lengthy, and as soon as a window of opportunity opened, the operation was carried out.
"Regarding the youngest released Ukrainian, who is 18 years old, this is a well-known story. When she was 16, she was accused of supporting Ukraine, that 'she tried to do certain things on the territory of Belarus,'" Yusov added.
Updated at 3:00 PM Kyiv time
According to the Coordination Headquarters, the youngest Ukrainian freed is named Mariia Misiuk.
Return of Ukrainians from Belarus
Earlier, on November 22, Ukraine returned 31 civilians from Belarus who had been sentenced to various terms of imprisonment, from 2 to 11 years.
The youngest Ukrainian released today is 18, and the oldest is 58. Among the released civilians are people with serious illnesses, including cancer.
Earlier reports stated that the Belarusian dictator, Alexander Lukashenko, pardoned 31 Ukrainian citizens. Two Catholic priests were also pardoned. Their release reportedly took place at the request of Pope Leo XIV.
