Belarusian Activist Maria Kolesnikova Seen After 600 Days

Belarusian opposition activist Maria Kolesnikova, imprisoned for over 600 days, was recently allowed a visit from her father, marking her first contact with family since her arrest. Kolesnikova, known for her role in the 2020 protests against President Alexander Lukashenko, was sentenced to 11 years for extremism. Her sister expressed disbelief and concern for her health, while opposition figures like Svetlana Tikhanovskaya called for continued pressure to release political prisoners. Lukashenko's recent pardons are seen as attempts to improve his image ahead of a controlled election.