Overview

• Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the presidency shares the general joy that Kharkin is free.
• Peskov stated there are currently no plans for a meeting between President Vladimir Putin and Kharkin.
• Russia’s ambassador to Israel Anatoly Viktorov welcomed the wider hostage releases and voiced satisfaction over Kharkin’s freedom.
• Viktorov said Russian diplomats maintained contacts with relevant parties and continued efforts to secure Kharkin’s release.
• Hamas freed 20 remaining living hostages under an agreement with Israel, with the group held in Gaza since October 7, 2023.