Latvian man sentenced to 6 years in a penal colony for "discrediting Belarus" and "calling for sanctions"

In the Minsk Regional Court, Latvian citizen Yurys Ganins was sentenced to six years of medium security imprisonment in a penal colony under three articles of the Criminal Code: "discrediting Belarus" (Articles 369-1 of the Criminal Code), "slandering Lukashenka" (Part 2 of Article 367 of the Criminal Code), and "calls for sanctions" (Part 2 of Article 361 of the Criminal Code). Judge Aliaksandr Rybakou handed down the verdict on February 19, but it became known only now.

The essence of the accusation is unknown; the trial took place behind closed doors. The criminal case against a Latvian citizen was considered in court from November 12, 2024, to February 19, 2025.

In total, 36 foreign political prisoners are held behind bars in Belarus, including four Latvian citizens.

Persecution that knows no borders: 36 foreigners among political prisoners in Belarus

Viasna reports why foreigners are persecuted in Belarus and recalls some of their stories.