Turkey orchestrated a significant prisoner exchange on Thursday, securing the release of US reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan from Russian custody. In exchange, 10 Russians, including opposition politician Ilya Yashin, were handed over to Moscow. The swap involved a total of 26 prisoners and represents one of the most extensive exchanges between the US, Russia, and Germany in recent years.
Russia has agreed to release Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan in a prisoner exchange with the United States. The two men, who were imprisoned in Russia on espionage charges, are currently traveling outside of Russia. The agreement involves the US releasing prisoners held back to Russia.
The White House has expressed its indignation at the trial of journalist Evan Gershkovich in Russia, reiterating its commitment to securing the release of both him and fellow detained American Paul Whelan. The administration views their detentions as a bargaining chip used by Russia and is actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to bring them home.
