The Trump administration has secured the release of Youras Ziankovich, a naturalized American citizen wrongfully detained in Belarus, marking the 47th American freed under President Trump’s leadership. Ziankovich, a Texas resident born in Minsk, was arrested in Moscow in April 2021 and transferred to Belarus, where he was accused of plotting a coup and sentenced to over 13 years in prison. His release was achieved without a prisoner swap, following coordinated efforts by U.S. officials and the Lithuanian government.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the release on April 30, 2025, praising President Trump’s decisive action. Rubio stated, “Thanks to @POTUS’s leadership, Belarus has released another wrongfully detained U.S. citizen.”
Ziankovich’s wife, Alena Dzenisavets, expressed gratitude, saying, “I knew this day would come. It took 1,480 days, but he survived and is on his way home to me and to America.” She thanked President Trump, Secretary Rubio, Special Envoy Adam Boehler, and others who advocated for her husband’s release.
This release is part of a broader initiative by the Trump administration to prioritize the return of Americans detained abroad. In just 100 days, 47 unjustly detained Americans have been freed from countries including Afghanistan, Russia, and Venezuela through high-level diplomatic efforts.
The administration’s approach underscores a commitment to “peace through strength,” leveraging diplomatic channels to secure the freedom of American citizens without concessions. This strategy has led to successful negotiations and the safe return of individuals who were wrongfully imprisoned overseas.
