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Historic US-Russia Prisoner Swap Frees 16 Westerners

A complex negotiation led by President Biden secured the release of Americans, including journalist Evan Gershkovich, in exchange for Russian spies and criminals.

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Reporter Evan Gershkovich hugs his mother, Ella Milman, as President Joe Biden, right, looks on at Andrews Air Force Base, Md., on Aug. 1, 2024.
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Overview

  • The exchange included a total of 24 prisoners, with 16 freed by Russia and 8 by the US and European allies.
  • Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan, and other detainees were part of the largest prisoner swap since the Cold War.
  • The deal was made possible through extensive diplomacy involving multiple countries, including Germany and Turkey.
  • President Biden's administration faced challenges, including the death of Alexei Navalny, which nearly derailed the negotiations.
  • Freed prisoners are now undergoing recovery programs to help them readjust to normal life.