US envoy John Coale announced the release of 25 political prisoners on Wednesday, following his latest visit to Minsk. In return, the US lifted sanctions on Lakokraska, a paint manufacturer, and Bellesbumprom, a state-owned industrial enterprise. Coale, tasked by Trump with securing prisoner releases, praised President Trump's direct diplomacy and stated that more releases are expected soon, with the administration aiming to improve US-Belarus relations. The European Union welcomed the step but noted over 800 individuals remain arbitrarily detained.