Belarus - Sentencing of opposition figures Maria Kolesnikova and Maxim Znak (7 September 2021)

France very firmly condemns the long prison sentences handed down to opposition figures Maria Kolesnikova and Maxim Znak. They once again illustrate the Alexander Lukashenko regime’s arbitrary repression of the democratic protest movement in Belarus. We reiterate our appeal for the immediate, unconditional release of Ms Kolesnikova, Mr Znak and all political prisoners in the country.

France has adopted sanctions with its European Union partners against those responsible for the serious human rights violations in Belarus. France remains fully mobilized alongside the Belarusian people, for an end to the repression and for a credible political dialogue.