German National Sentenced to Death in Belarus on Terrorism Charges

In a shocking development, a German national has been sentenced to death in Belarus on charges related to terrorism and mercenary activity. The German foreign ministry confirmed the news and stated that it is in close contact with authorities in Minsk regarding the fate of the individual.

Belarus, the only country in Europe that still implements the death penalty, remains a staunch ally of Russia. The German ministry chose not to disclose the name of the individual involved. However, Belarusian human rights organization Viasna identified him as Rico Krieger, citing unnamed sources.

According to Viasna, Krieger had been in custody since November 2023 and was convicted on June 24. The organization highlighted that the charges against him are linked to the activities of the Kalinouski Regiment, a group of anti-government Belarusian exiles fighting for Ukraine. The Kalinouski Regiment has refrained from commenting on the matter.

The German government is providing consular support and actively engaging with Belarusian authorities on behalf of Krieger. The Belarusian justice ministry, which had not previously reported on the case, has yet to respond to requests for comment.

Belarus, under the long-term rule of President Alexander Lukashenko, has been a strong supporter of Russia during the conflict in neighboring Ukraine. Consequently, the country has faced extensive sanctions from the Western world.

Meanwhile, in a separate incident adding to the growing tensions, a U.S. journalist, Evan Gershkovich, was recently sentenced to 16 years in jail by a Russian court on false espionage charges. It is unclear if there is any connection between Gershkovich's case and that of Krieger.

The details of the legal proceedings surrounding Krieger's case have yet to be independently verified by Reuters. However, Viasna's statement suggests that Krieger's conviction stems from his involvement with the Kalinouski Regiment.

The sentencing of a German national to death in Belarus has raised concerns and is likely to strain diplomatic relations between the two countries. Germany will undoubtedly continue its efforts to seek clemency or a commutation of the sentence for its citizen.

As the situation develops, international organizations and human rights advocates are expected to closely monitor the proceedings and advocate for a fair and just resolution.