A German citizen, Rico Krieger, has been sentenced to death in Belarus on charges including terrorism and mercenary activities, according to the Belarusian human rights group Human Rights Center “Viasna.” The sentencing took place at the Minsk Regional Court on June 24.
Krieger, a 29-year-old former emergency medical technician with the German Red Cross and armed security officer for the US Embassy in Berlin, faced multiple serious charges. These included “mercenary activity,” “agent activity,” “an act of terrorism,” “creation of an extremist formation,” “intentional disrepair of a vehicle or communication lines,” and “illegal actions involving firearms, ammunition, and explosives.”
Viasna reported that Krieger was found guilty of planning an explosion to influence decision-making, intimidate the public, and destabilize public order. Details about the incidents leading to these charges remain unclear.
In response, the German Foreign Office confirmed that consular support is being provided and emphasized Germany’s opposition to the death penalty. The German Embassy in Minsk is actively working with Belarusian authorities on Krieger’s case.
Belarusian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Anatoly Glaz stated that Belarus has ensured consular access for the German national and is engaged in consultations with Germany regarding the situation.
The German Red Cross, where Krieger was previously employed, clarified that his actions abroad were unrelated to his work with the organization.
Exiled Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya expressed concern over Krieger’s sentencing, noting that further information is being gathered about his case.
