In Extensive International Prisoner Exchange, Americans Released from Captivity in Russia
The swap of 24 prisoners was part of negotiations involving the United States, Germany, Norway, Poland, and Slovenia on one side, and Russia and Belarus on the other.
WASHINGTON—Three Americans and one U.S. green card holder who were wrongfully detained in Russia are on their way home as part of a multi-national prisoner swap.
Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, Radio Free Europe journalist Alsu Kurmasheva, and Marine veteran Paul Whelan are expected to arrive at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland by mid-afternoon on Aug. 1.
All three individuals were imprisoned in Russia under questionable circumstances, with accusations of spying and spreading false information about the Russian military.
In total, 16 people were released from Russia to the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom. In return, the United States and its allies sent eight prisoners back to Russia.
The prisoner swap was part of negotiations involving 24 prisoners between the United States, Germany, Norway, Poland, and Slovenia on one side, and Russia and Belarus on the other, mediated by Turkey.
President Joe Biden highlighted the importance of strong international partnerships in making such deals possible, emphasizing the cooperation of allied nations.
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President Biden hailed the diplomatic efforts and cooperation of multiple countries in achieving this historic prisoner swap, emphasizing the importance of strong alliances in ensuring the safety of Americans.
He expressed relief that the ordeal of the prisoners and their families was coming to an end and reiterated the administration’s commitment to building trust with international partners.
