Belarusian-Polish journalist Andrzej Poczobut, recently released from a Belarusian prison, received Poland’s Order of the White Eagle on Sunday, recognizing his advocacy for Poles in Belarus.
Isolation and Support from Poles
Following the ceremony, Poczobut stated that despite being subjected to particular isolation, he continued to receive information and never felt alone. He expressed gratitude for the support of people in Poland, around the world, and in Belarus.
Reflections on Courage and Duty
Poczobut also reflected on the soldiers of the Home Army, whom he had written about and had the honor of knowing, noting they endured far greater hardships. He described himself as an ordinary person striving to live by certain principles.
Health and Future Plans
When asked about his future plans, Poczobut explained he remains hospitalized and had attended the Presidential Palace ceremony from there. Further examinations are still planned.
Award and Release from Prison
President awarded Poczobut the Order on November 11, 2025, in recognition of his significant contributions to the Polish community in Belarus, particularly his fight for human rights and steadfast opposition to emerging totalitarian regimes. He was invited to receive the Order after being released from Belarusian prison last week.
History of Persecution and Sentencing
For years, Poczobut collaborated with Polish media, reporting on the situation in Belarus. He faced arrest and trial for critical comments about Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko. He was detained on March 25, 2021, and Belarusian authorities accused him of “rehabilitating Nazism” due to his promotion of Polish identity and publications in the media.
He was held in pre-trial detention for an extended period and sentenced to eight years in a strict-regime penal colony on February 8, 2023. His appeal was rejected by the Belarusian Supreme Court, and he was transferred to a penal colony in Novopolotsk.
Prisoner Exchange and Diplomatic Efforts
On April 28th, a prisoner exchange took place on the Poland-Belarus border, based on a “five for five” principle, resulting in the release of three Polish citizens, including Poczobut, and two Moldovan nationals.
US Involvement in Securing Release
US Special Envoy for Belarus John Coale stated that Poczobut was always a top priority for release, following pressure from US President Donald Trump after a conversation with President Karol Nawrocki last September.
Copyright Information
Material protected by copyright law – all rights reserved. Further distribution of the article requires permission from the publisher INFOR PL S.A. Purchase a license. Enter the email address of the selected person, and we will send them free access to this article.
Related
Copyright © INFOR PL S.A.