Freedom Day is traditionally celebrated by Belarusians around the world on March 25. “This day highlights the democratic legacy of the first independent Belarusian state, established in 1918 after 150 years of Russian occupation,” the US State Department spokesperson’s office said in a statement. – Despite the Lukashenka regime’s complicity in Russia’s war against Ukraine, Belarusians continue to fight for the independent and democratic future of Belarus. In the face of the brutal systemic repression of the totalitarian regime, the Belarusian democracy movement and civil society courageously continue to move forward in the name of a free Belarus.
On the eve of the holiday, the United States took action to hold the Lukashenko regime accountable for human rights abuses against the Belarusian people and for facilitating the Russian Federation’s war against Ukraine. The US Treasury Department has announced sanctions against public companies and individuals who support the Lukashenko regime. He also imposed visa restrictions on fourteen other people for their involvement in undermining democracy.
“The U.S. government intends to initiate a comprehensive strategic dialogue on topical issues of mutual interest with the Belarusian democracy movement and civil society,” the State Department press release reads, which will be a new step to strengthen support for a future democratic Belarus.
Thus, on the occasion of Freedom Day for Belarus, the United States reaffirms its traditional policy of support for a democratic, sovereign and stable Belarus: “This commitment is unwavering, founded on bipartisan support and deeply rooted in the values of our country. The administration of President Joe Biden wholeheartedly adheres to this policy, as have all American presidents for more than thirty years.
“The nearly 1,500 political prisoners imprisoned under Lukashenka’s regime, like all Belarusians, deserve to create a future free from Lukashenka’s repression and Putin’s coercion,” the statement said.
