In a major diplomatic breakthrough, the Biden administration has reached an agreement with Russia for a prisoner exchange that will secure the release of several American citizens, including Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, Marine veteran Paul Whelan, and Russian-American radio journalist Alsu Kurmasheva. This development marks a significant victory for press freedom and U.S.-Russia relations.
The exchange, expected to take place later today (Thursday), is being hailed as the largest multi-country prisoner swap since the Cold War. The deal, involving the U.S. and four NATO allies, will see a total of 24 prisoners exchanged with Russia.
Gershkovich, 32, has been held in Moscow's notorious Lefortovo Prison for 16 months after being arrested on espionage charges during a reporting trip in Yekaterinburg in March 2023. The U.S. State Department quickly designated him as wrongfully detained and called for his immediate release. In July, a Russian court sentenced him to 16 years in prison in what the U.S. called a "sham" trial.
Paul Whelan, arrested in December 2018 while visiting Russia for a friend's wedding, has been serving a 16-year sentence since 2020. Both Whelan and Gershkovich have consistently denied the espionage allegations against them.
Alsu Kurmasheva, a dual American and Russian citizen, was detained in Russia in June 2023 on charges of spreading false information about the Russian army.
National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan recently emphasized the administration's determination to secure the release of Americans held in Russia. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger Carstens also expressed confidence in their return, though the timing remained uncertain until now.
This prisoner swap not only brings relief to the families of those detained but also opens doors for improved dialogue between nations.
The White House, State Department, and CIA have not yet commented on the exchange. More details are expected to emerge as the swap unfolds later today.
