Mikalai Statkevich thanks EU for solidarity

The political prisoner thinks recalling EU ambassadors from Minsk is an important sign of solidarity with the people fighting for freedom and democracy in Belarus.

Maryna Adamovich, the wife of the presidential candidate at the latest election, said about a reaction of her husband after a visit to the Mahilou prison, Radio Racyja reports.

“Mikalai talked about his reaction to the situation. He thanked Europe. He asked to say he regards it as a sign of solidarity. The travel ban and recalling ambassadors show the truth is on our side and the world supports us. He says he is happy the ideals of freedom still have value,” the wife of the political prisoner says.

Maryna Adamovich noted confinement conditions did not change for Mikalai Statkevich. The only change is that he was given winter boots. Before that, he had to wear summer shoes during walks in the prison yard.

Mikalai Statkevich was sentenced to 6 years in a medium security penal colony for preparing and taking part in the post-election protests in 2010. He did not admit his guilt. In January 2012, the Shklou district court ruled out to transfer him to a prison with stricter confinement conditions than in a penal colony.