In a video address, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya responds to an open letter calling for the release of political prisoners. She voices her support for the demands to free those imprisoned and end repression, speaks about her work with international partners, and explains why securing releases requires both pressure and negotiations.
“I want to say a big thank-you to everyone who signed the letter calling for the release of political prisoners. I have great respect for all former political prisoners — both those who signed the letter and those who have expressed doubts.
I would have signed it myself. I share your pain and support the demands it sets out: to release people, end repression, and allow everyone to return home. These demands are just. And I will do everything in my power to make sure your voices are heard.
We should not argue over who wants people to be released more. We must not let the regime divide us. The dilemmas being presented to us — pressure or dialogue, negotiations or sanctions — are false. Neither works without the other. Without pressure, the regime will not engage in serious dialogue”.
