On Thursday, August 1st, President Biden announced a prisoner swap between the United States and Russia, with Russia releasing four American citizens and permanent residents who were held captive, including Evan Gershkovich, a journalist from The Wall Street Journal.
“Today their suffering has come to an end,” Biden said at a press conference. He stated that these detainees had “endured unimaginable pain and insecurity.”
Biden described the agreement to secure the release of 16 prisoners through negotiations with Russia as a “diplomatic feat.” Among those released were former Marine Paul Whelan, journalist Alsu Kurmasheva, and Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist Vladimir Kara-Murza.
In addition, Russia also released five Germans and seven Russian citizens considered political prisoners by the Russian authorities.
Biden expressed gratitude to allies who collaborated with the United States in carrying out this prisoner exchange program, including Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, and Turkey.
“They stood by us in difficult, complex negotiations and achieved this outcome. It is a strong testament to why having trusted and dependable friends in this world is crucial. Our alliance makes Americans safer,” Biden stated.
The president also pledged to continue efforts to bring home all Americans wrongfully detained abroad.
He said, “Nevertheless, there are still too many families suffering, separated from their loved ones. As the president, there is nothing more important than bringing these Americans home.”
This exchange not only marks a milestone in diplomacy but also underscores the importance of international cooperation in resolving such humanitarian issues. President Biden’s commitment to ensuring the safe return of all Americans detained abroad demonstrates his dedication to upholding human rights and protecting the welfare of American citizens around the world.