Dzmitry Balkunets to be tried in absentia
The Investigative Committee of Belarus has announced the start of special proceedings against political activist Dzmitry Balkunets, who is currently abroad. He is ordered to appear before the Minsk Department of the Investigative Committee.
Dzmitry Balkunets — far right. Photo from social media
The case is being investigated under eight articles of the Criminal Code:
- Part 1 Art. 357 (conspiracy or other actions committed with the aim of seizing power);
- Part 3 Art. 361 (calls for sanctions against Belarus);
- Part 1 Art. 361-1 (creating an extremist formation or participating in it);
- Parts 1, 2 Art. 361-4 (facilitating extremist activities);
- Parts 1, 2 Art. 367 (slander against Lukashenka);
- Parts 1, 2 Art. 368 (insulting Lukashenka);
- Art. 369 (insulting a government official);
- Art. 369-1 (discrediting Belarus).
The start date for the special proceedings is January 22, 2026.