Belarus Pardons German Citizen Rico Krieger

Rico Krieger, a German citizen sentenced to death in Belarus for terrorism, has been pardoned by President Alexander Lukashenko, as confirmed by the German foreign office. Krieger's conviction stemmed from accusations of planting explosives near a railway and conducting reconnaissance for the Ukrainian Security Service, with his trial lacking independent oversight and evidence. His pardon was granted shortly after he formally requested clemency, bringing relief to German officials. Concurrently, reports emerged of several political prisoners in Russia disappearing from penal colonies, raising concerns about their safety. The Belarusian government stated that the pardon was made after considering 'all the circumstances' surrounding Krieger's case, which may be linked to a pro-Ukrainian volunteer group. Germany has expressed its rejection of the death penalty, highlighting the inhumane nature of such punishment.