Polish-Belarusian journalist Andrzej Poczobut was released after over two years in detention, following a prisoner exchange facilitated by multiple nations on April 28.
First Words of Poczobut Upon Release
“Will I be able to return there?” were Poczobut’s first words, according to Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who responded, “You decide. You are a free man.”
Transfer to Hospital for Examination
Following his release from the border, Poczobut immediately went to a hospital for comprehensive medical examinations, as reported by “Gazeta Wyborcza.”
Statements from Polish Officials
Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski spoke with Poczobut, stating he appeared exhausted but in good condition, and that all of Poland rejoices in his freedom. Sikorski affirmed Poland does not abandon its own.
Karol Nawrocki invited Poczobut to the Presidential Palace, noting Poczobut demonstrated a strong attachment to Polish values.
Poczobut’s Work and Imprisonment
Andrzej Poczobut collaborated with Polish media, including “Gazeta Wyborcza,” reporting on the situation in Belarus.
Belarusian authorities detained him in March 2021, accusing him of “rehabilitating Nazism.” He was sentenced to eight years in a strict-regime penal colony in February 2023 after a lengthy detention.
President Nawrocki extended an invitation for Poczobut to personally receive the Order of the White Eagle, awarded in November 2025.