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Belarus faces ongoing political repression, with recent prisoner deaths and arrests highlighting the regime's brutal tactics. President Lukashenko has pardoned some prisoners but continues to detain nearly 1,200 political prisoners amid protests and international criticism. The story underscores Belarus's persistent authoritarianism.
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The EU plans to phase out Russian LNG by January 2027, earlier than scheduled, as part of its 19th sanctions package. The move aims to cut Russia's fossil fuel revenues amid ongoing tensions with the US, which is urging Europe to impose harsher tariffs on China and India for buying Russian energy. The package faces delays in approval.
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On September 19, 2025, British nationals Peter and Barbie Reynolds were released after nearly eight months detained by the Taliban in Afghanistan. The couple, longtime residents and Afghan citizens, were held without charge and endured harsh conditions. Their release followed court hearings and mediation led by Qatar. They have returned to the UK and expressed hope to return to Afghanistan.
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Russian opposition politician Shlosberg faces a new charge related to a Telegram post from 2022, just days before his scheduled release from house arrest. Meanwhile, other cases involve Americans and regional leaders, highlighting ongoing political repression amid Russia’s wartime environment.