Belarus has freed three individuals, including an American citizen and a journalist, who had been imprisoned for over three years, according to statements from U.S. officials on Wednesday.

The White House did not reveal the identity of the American or the specific charges that led to the individual’s detention. However, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty disclosed that one of the freed individuals is Andrey Kuznechyk, a journalist for their organization. Kuznechyk was arrested in 2021 outside his residence in Minsk amid a broader crackdown on independent media by Belarusian authorities.
Stephen Capus, the president of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, expressed his happiness for Kuznechyk and his family in a statement, emphasizing the joy of their reunion after years of separation. Capus also extended his gratitude to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and the Lithuanian government for their assistance in this matter.
According to the news organization, Kuznechyk faced charges related to his alleged involvement in an extremist group and was sentenced to imprisonment. However, U.S. officials and advocates for press freedom have labeled him a political prisoner and have actively campaigned for his release.
The announcement of these releases came just one day after the White House celebrated a prisoner exchange with Russia, which resulted in the return of American teacher Marc Fogel from Pennsylvania, who had also been detained for over three years.
President Trump hinted at the positive developments earlier in the evening, mentioning that another individual would be returning home that day. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt referred to the Belarusian releases as a significant achievement, especially following Marc Fogel’s return to America the previous night.