U.S. representatives expressed their deep sadness due to the murder of Belarusian activist Vitaly Shishov. They also expressed concern regarding this incident and hope that Ukrainian law enforcement agencies will conduct a thorough and professional investigation.
The relevant statement was published on the official Facebook page of the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine.
"The United States is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Belarusian activist Vital Shyshou in Kyiv, and we extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones. The death takes place amid an unacceptable Belarusian crack down on civil society, and we look forward to a complete and thorough investigation by Ukrainian authorities to establish its causes and circumstances," the representatives of the American Embassy wrote.
European diplomats joined the U.S. Embassy, expressing their condolences.
In particular, Latvian Foreign Minister Edgar Rinkevich expressed his deepest condolences to Shishov's family and friends.
“Shocking news about the death of the Belarusian activist Vitaly #Shishov who was found hanged in #Kyiv. My deep condolences to his family and friends. A thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to his death must be conducted," Rinkevich posted on Twitter.
At the same time, Danish Foreign Minister Jeppe Kofod is also "deeply shocked by Shishov's terrible death".
" Deeply shocked by the horrific death of Belarusian NGO leader Vitaly #Shishov. Call on the authorities in Kyiv to get to the bottom of the case, present their findings. Unacceptable that Belarusian athletes & NGOs continue to live in fear!#Accountability4Belarus #Belarus #dkpol," Kofod stated on his Twitter account.
Swedish Foreign Minister Anne Linde and the Austrian Foreign Ministry also joined their colleagues.
“Shocking news about the death of Vitaly Shishov, head of exile group Belarusian House in Ukraine. A thorough investigation is crucial. My thoughts go to his family, friends, and colleagues,” Anna Linde, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sweden, posted on her Twitter.
“We are deeply shocked by the news of the death of the Belarusian activist Vitaly #Shishov. Our thoughts are with his loved ones. Austria calls for a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances leading to his death,” the Austrian Foreign Ministry tweeted.