Have no illusions about Belarus, prisoner release not fundamental change – Nauseda

VILNIUS – Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda says no one should have illusions about a change in Belarusian policy as the Minsk regime releases some political prisoners,

He made this statement in response to some Lithuanian politicians mentioning the possibility of closer relations with Minsk after the regime released some opposition figures from prison and initiated dialogue with the Trump administration.

"Belarus' actions are contributing to Russia's ability to continue bombing Ukraine. (...) The fact that political prisoners are being released should not give the impression that this is a fundamental change in Belarusian policy," Nauseda said on Thursday after a meeting at the Presidential Palace to discuss foreign policy and security issues.

"If anyone is under the illusion that the sanctions will soon be lifted, (...) the sanction regime will be extended, and this should be done next week," he said.