Japanese Citizen Sentenced to Seven Years in Belarus for Espionage

Masatoshi Nakanishi's closed trial and conviction raise diplomatic tensions and human rights concerns as Belarus faces criticism for its authoritarian practices.

• Masatoshi Nakanishi, a Japanese citizen, was convicted of espionage in Belarus and sentenced to seven years in prison, along with a $6,700 fine.
• Belarusian authorities accused Nakanishi of photographing military and civilian infrastructure between 2018 and 2024, allegedly for Japanese intelligence.
• The trial was conducted behind closed doors, with Belarus denying the Japanese Embassy's request to attend the proceedings.
• The Viasna Human Rights Centre declared Nakanishi a political prisoner, highlighting broader concerns about Belarus' authoritarian governance and suppression of dissent.
• Japan has protested Nakanishi's treatment and confirmed it is working to support him, as the case strains diplomatic relations between the two countries.

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The Japan Times CNA