1`Introduction
After spending over five years in solitary confinement, Sergei Tikhanovsky—a key figure in Belarus’ opposition movement—has finally broken his silence. His release, along with 13 other political prisoners, comes amid a diplomatic gesture between Belarus and the United States. Tikhanovsky’s first words are filled with pain, resilience, and an unshaken commitment to a democratic Belarus.
Years in Isolation
Held in a high-security prison since 2020, Tikhanovsky was punished for his efforts to challenge President Alexander Lukashenko. Originally a popular YouTuber who exposed state corruption, he attempted to run for president under the slogan “Stop the Cockroach”—a direct jab at Lukashenko. Instead, he was arrested, and his wife, Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, took his place in the election.
In an emotional interview with the BBC, Sergei described the brutal conditions he endured: isolation, punishment cells, and a complete communication blackout. “I didn’t get a single letter in almost three years,” he said. “Physically I’m half the size, but my spirit is not broken.”
Emotional Family Reunion
After his release, Sergei Tikhanovsky met his daughter for the first time in over five years. “She didn’t recognize me at first,” he admitted tearfully, “but then she threw herself into my arms.” Sergei had lost more than 60 kilograms (132 pounds) during his imprisonment, leaving him almost unrecognizable.
How His Release Happened
Sergei’s freedom was part of a surprise development following a visit by U.S. special envoy Keith Kellogg to Minsk. The meeting was intended to negotiate the release of U.S. citizens but resulted in Tikhanovsky’s unexpected liberation as well. Analysts suggest it was a strategic move by Lukashenko to begin rebuilding diplomatic bridges with the West, especially after his global isolation for aiding Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Refusing to Confess
Despite months of pressure to seek a pardon from Lukashenko, Tikhanovsky refused. “I am no criminal,” he stated firmly. “To confess would be to betray all who support me.” His defiance underscores his role as a symbol of resistance in Belarus’ pro-democracy movement Sergei Tikhanovsky.
Calls for Broader Action
Though free, Sergei remains deeply concerned about the hundreds of political prisoners still detained. “We must pay any price to get them out,” he said. According to Human Rights Watch, over 1,000 political detainees remain behind bars in Belarus. Many, including opposition leaders Maria Kolesnikova and Viktor Babaryka, were never included in release lists.
Sergei warns the international community not to be fooled by Lukashenko’s gestures. “For 14 people released, 28 more were detained,” Svetlana Tikhanovskaya noted. She insists that sanctions must not be lifted until all repression ends.
What Comes Next for Sergei?
In exile in Lithuania, Sergei has started to catch up on five lost years Sergei Tikhanovsky—meeting his children, engaging with world leaders, and even writing to Donald Trump to thank him for diplomatic support. When asked about his political ambitions now, Sergei is clear: “I don’t need a title. I just want a democratic Belarus.”
Conclusion
Sergei Tikhanovsky story is one of extraordinary resilience. Starved, silenced, and shut away, he emerges not broken, but emboldened. His testimony adds urgency to calls for international pressure on Lukashenko’s regime, and his release may mark only the beginning of Belarus’ long road to democracy.
Internal Resources
External Sources
- BBC – Tikhanovsky’s First Interview
- HRW – Belarus Human Rights Report
- Al Jazeera – Belarus & Ukraine War
