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"Upon saying this, he insisted that I cease my threats, expressing his desire to simply appreciate the trees."

Politician Nikolai Statkevich remains untraced in Belarus despite days of no clear information about his location. Despite being one of the 52 prisoners pardoned by Alexander Lukashenko on September 11, Statkevich has chosen to stay within the country's borders.

"He instead requested me to cease extorting him, expressing his desire to appreciate the beauty of...
"He instead requested me to cease extorting him, expressing his desire to appreciate the beauty of the trees."

"Upon saying this, he insisted that I cease my threats, expressing his desire to simply appreciate the trees."

In a rare encounter at the Belarus-Lithuanian border, journalist Oksana Kolb managed to reach Nikolai Statkevich, a prominent Belarusian opposition leader. The conversation, which lasted about nine minutes, provided insights into Statkevich's current state and his desires for the future.

Statkevich, who had been placed under house arrest by Belarusian authorities prior to his arrest, was at the border on the day in question. Despite a heart attack he had admitted to experiencing while in detention, his voice sounded normal during their conversation. Oksana observed Nikolai's physical condition, but did not notice any changes in his voice that would suggest further health issues. However, she did note that he appeared hunched over and had lost weight.

Statkevich's words indicated a strong desire to remain outside of Belarus. He expressed his unwillingness to return due to the risk of being imprisoned again. His statements did not provide details about his current health status or future plans, but he did express a sense of urgency about his current situation.

Interestingly, Statkevich's focus seemed to be on enjoying the natural environment at the border. He expressed a desire to admire the trees and enjoy fresh air. This desire to connect with nature was evident in his statements, suggesting a desire to make the most of the time he has left.

Despite his resolve, Statkevich did not mention any specific blackmail during their conversation. Instead, he expressed his resolve, stating that giving in to the authorities' terms would ruin his life. Statkevich was trying to go to Lithuania for his wife, Marina Adamovich.

Oksana tried to persuade Statkevich, but she felt she may have caused him distress. Statkevich's statements do not provide information about his intentions regarding political activities. However, his strong desire for freedom and his focus on enjoying the natural world at the border suggest a man determined to live his life on his own terms.

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