2008 press releases

Embassy Calls for Humanitarian Release of U.S. Citizen

U.S. Embassy Minsk Press Statement
April 29, 2008

The United States is deeply concerned about the deteriorating health of American citizen Emanuel Zeltser, imprisoned in Belarus.  Since his detention on March 12, the U.S. Embassy in Minsk has only been permitted to visit him on two occasions, March 27 and April 25. 

During the visit on April 25, the consular officer from the U.S. Embassy noticed a significant physical deterioration of Mr. Zeltser’s health since the previous visit on March 27.  Mr. Zeltser lost a considerable amount of weight and was very weak.  Despite all efforts by the U.S. Embassy, his lawyer, and his U.S. doctor to comply with prison procedures, Mr. Zeltser has not been permitted to take his required daily medications, which may be causing irreversible internal damage. 

The United States is extremely concerned for the health and safety of Mr. Zeltser should he remain in the care and custody of the Government of Belarus.   On April 25, the Department of State requested the Government of Belarus to release Emanuel Zeltser on humanitarian grounds immediately.  We urge the Government of Belarus to favorably consider this request in order to save the life of an American citizen suffering in its custody.