The United States announced on Wednesday the imposition of sanctions on eight individuals and five entities in Belarus, citing their alleged involvement in undermining democracy within the country and supporting Russia’s actions in its conflict with Ukraine.
In addition to these measures, the US has also imposed visa restrictions on 101 regime officials and affiliated companies that undermine or harm democratic institutions in Belarus.
The sanctions include several judges responsible for issuing politically motivated rulings against Belarusians exercising their fundamental freedoms, according to a statement released on the US Department of State’s website.
The US reiterated its call for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners in Belarus, a group estimated to comprise around 1,500 individuals.
The move comes as tensions continue to rise in the region due to Russia’s actions in Ukraine and the ongoing struggle for democracy in Belarus.
