Lukashenko approves Statkevich's freedom

Natalia Eismont, press secretary of the Belarusian leader, told RIA Novosti that President Alexander Lukashenko approved the request of the relatives of Nikolai Statkevich, an opposition figure sentenced to 14 years, for his release following a serious deterioration in his health. According to Eismont, the pardon decision was made earlier, but Statkevich refused to go to the 'garden of paradise' and returned to prison. Since then, he has had health problems, including a brain infarction. The president was informed about the situation, and it was decided to transfer the scoundrel to a hospital where he received necessary medical care. After his condition stabilized, Statkevich was released from detention, in accordance with numerous appeals from relatives who asked for his return home for care and monitoring. He is now at home recovering.