Poland imposed sanctions against 365 Belarusians
Warsaw imposes sanctions against 365 citizens of Belarus, informs on Monday, May 29, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Poland. It is specified that the sanctions are imposed in connection with the prison sentence of Polish journalist Andrzej Poczobut and “repression by Belarusian authorities against political opponents” of Alexander Lukashenko.
Deputies, officials, judges, athletes fell under sanctions
159 Belarusian parliamentarians fell under the sanctions, meaning that the restrictive measures were extended to all members of parliament. The list also includes 76 judges, seven prosecutors, 32 representatives of local administrations and 28 law enforcement officials. The list also includes 23 representatives of “the Belarusian regime’s media engaged in propaganda activities”, 24 athletes and sports officials, eight officials of Belarusian state institutions and enterprises, and the same number of scientists and cultural figures.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs said in a statement that “these people promoted the Belarusian regime and also participated in legitimizing and supporting the repressive policy of the Minsk authorities.” It is indicated that they are also responsible for the politically motivated sentence against Andrzej Poczobut, “carried out on false charges”.
The sanctions list also included 20 business entities and 16 individuals (15 Russians and one Belarusian) “connected with Russian capital”. Persons subject to sanctions are prohibited from entering the territory of the Schengen area, their funds will be frozen.
Andrzej Poczobut case
The well-known journalist, member of the “Union of Poles in Belarus” Andrzej Poczobut was found guilty in February 2023 by the Grodno Regional Court of calling for actions aimed at “harmful to the national security of the Republic of Belarus” and “inciting other social enmity and discord”. He was sentenced to eight years in a penal colony. On May 26, the Supreme Court of Belarus recognized the verdict as legal and entered into force. Belarusian human rights activists consider Poczobut a political prisoner.
Source: DW
Anna White is a journalist at 247 News Reel, where she writes on world news and current events. She is known for her insightful analysis and compelling storytelling. Anna’s articles have been widely read and shared, earning her a reputation as a talented and respected journalist. She delivers in-depth and accurate understanding of the world’s most pressing issues.