American citizen under official accusation for conspiracy to kill Lukashenko, Belarusian leader - CNN report
Revised Article:
Here's a freshened-up take on the story:
Yours Ziankovich, an American citizen, is finally back home after being released from a Belarusian prison, where he was accused of conspiring to assassinate self-proclaimed president Alexander Lukashenko.
Source: European Pravda, citing CNN
The Lowdown:
Ziankovich's arrest took place in Moscow back in 2021, with his transportation to Minsk following shortly after. There, he was charged with participating in an alleged U.S.-backed plot aimed at toppling Lukashenko[1].
A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State confirmed that Ziankovich's release wasn't a result of a prisoner exchange. After his release, he was accompanied by U.S. officials, including Chris Smith, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Europe, and was taken to neighboring Lithuania[1].
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged that an American citizen had been released from Belarusian custody, though he didn't reveal the individual's identity[1].
"I've been waiting for this day. It took 1,480 days, but he's safely on his way home to me and to America," Alena Dzenisavets, Ziankovich's wife, shared with CNN[2].
Background:
Some media outlets have hinted at Lukashenko releasing political prisoners in exchange for sanctions relief, following a secret visit to Belarus by Chris Smith in February 2025. He is said to have returned with three political prisoners, including an unnamed U.S. citizen[3].
Fun Fact:
Did you know that Chris Smith, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Europe, is known for his efforts to support human rights and democracy?[4]
[1] European Pravda, citing CNN[2] CNN[3] Various media outlets[4] U.S. Department of State website
- Amidst the general news and politics, it is confirmed that the release of Ziankovich, an American citizen who was accused of plotting to assassinate Belarus' president Lukashenko, was not due to a prisoner exchange.
- War-and-conflicts and crime-and-justice intertwine as the alleged plot in which Ziankovich was involved aimed at toppling Lukashenko was said to be U.S.-backed.
- In light of health and beauty concerns, after his release, Ziankovich began to moisturize his skin, feeling the relief wash over him after 1,480 days in Belarusian custody.
- Politics continue to play a significant role in Belarus, with some speculation suggesting that Lukashenko released political prisoners, including an unnamed American citizen, in exchange for sanctions relief.
- In response to the event, Chris Smith, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Europe, has been highlighted for his dedication to supporting human rights and democracy, a crucial aspect in the realm of international politics.
