In Brussels, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, met with a delegation of the democratic forces of Belarus led by Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. The meeting also included the Deputy Head of the United Transitional Cabinet, Pavel Latushka, as well as recently released political prisoners Maria Kalesnikava and Viktar Babaryka.
Kaja Kallas expressed support for Belarus and Belarusians fighting for freedom, congratulated Babaryka and Kalesnikava on their release, and highlighted the efforts of the United States and the European Union toward securing the release of political prisoners.
Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya thanked High Representative Kallas for the work of the EU–Belarus Consultative Group, which has been addressing practical problems for Belarusians over the past three years, and for the EU’s principled position in distinguishing the Belarusian people from the regime.
Ms. Tsikhanouskaya emphasized that despite the regime’s attempts to divide the democratic movement, it remains united and continues its work. “We may have different views and tactical approaches, but we share the same values and one goal – a free, democratic, and European Belarus”.
She also highlighted the role of the US administration in freeing political prisoners and thanked European partners for their significant support for those repressed. Ms. Tsikhanouskaya specifically acknowledged Poland, Lithuania, and Ukraine for their hospitality in hosting released and deported Belarusian citizens. She addressed the ongoing development of relations with Ukraine.
Pavel Latushka spoke about the democratic forces’ work to hold the regime accountable. He urged the EU to support Lithuania’s referral of the regime’s crimes to the International Criminal Court and to continue pressuring the regime until repression ends and political change begins.
Viktar Babaryka shared his vision for strengthening the country’s independence and reintegrating the country into the European space, noting the EU’s significant influence and capacity to affect the situation in Belarus.
Maryia Kalesnikava stressed the need to continue humanitarian efforts aimed at freeing political prisoners, ending repression, and strengthening mobility and connections between Belarusians and the EU.
The meeting took place on the occasion of the sixth session of the EU’s Consultative Group with the Belarusian democratic forces and civil society.
