Story perspectives

Maria Kolesnikova Calls for Belarus's Isolation to End

2/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Maria Kolesnikova, Belarus opposition figure, was released from prison in December 2025 after international pressure and now lives in Berlin with political asylum and medical care.
She says sanctions harm ordinary citizens but do not affect Lukashenko and calls for ending Belarus's isolation, which she says benefits Russia.
She remains active in raising awareness for political prisoners and does not regret her actions, attributing violence to Lukashenko's regime.

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Story summary

Maria Kolesnikova, Belarus opposition figure, was released from prison in December 2025 after international pressure and now lives in Berlin with political asylum and medical care.
She says sanctions harm ordinary citizens but do not affect Lukashenko and calls for ending Belarus's isolation, which she says benefits Russia.
She remains active in raising awareness for political prisoners and does not regret her actions, attributing violence to Lukashenko's regime.