WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) met with political and human rights activists TatsianaKhomich, Volha Harbunova, and Valery Kavaleuski to discuss ways to release political prisoners in Belarus. 

During the meeting, Senator Welch spoke with Ms. Khomich about her sister, Belarusian activist Maryia Kalesnikava. Ms. Kalesnikava was an opposition leader during the 2020 Belarusian Presidential election and was sentenced to 11 years in prison after an attempted forced deportation and her return to Belarus.  

Ms. Khomich is telling Maryia’s story and advocating for her release. Volha Harbunova is a human rights defender who was imprisoned in Belarus by the Lukashenka regime. Outside of Belarus, Volha continues her human rightsadvocacy in calling for the release of political prisoners. Valery Kavaleuski, a former Belarusian diplomat, is advancing international advocacy efforts of this initiative. 

“It was an honor to meet with political activist Tatsiana Khomich and human rights defender Volha Harbunova on Capitol Hill to hear about their courageous efforts to free Tatsiana’s sister, Maryia Kalesnikava, and other Belarusian political prisoners. The United States stands in solidarity with Belarusians like Maryia who are fighting for transparent, democratic reforms.” said Senator Welch. “I will continue to monitor Maryia’s case and advocate for her release.” 

Senator Welch has joined efforts in the Senate to support other Belarusian leaders who peacefully advocate for democratic reform, protection of human rights, and enforcement of the rule of law.  

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