U.S. and Russia Complete Largest Prisoner Swap Since Cold War, Freeing 24 in Ankara

Aug 5, 2024, 10:21 AM

The United States and Russia have completed the largest and most complex prisoner exchange since the Cold War, involving 24 individuals held in six countries. The exchange, facilitated by Türkiye and conducted in Ankara on Thursday, freed 16 detainees from the West, including Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, former Marine Paul Whelan, and radio journalist Alsu Kurmasheva. In return, Russia received eight prisoners, including convicted assassin Vadim Krasikov. The deal also involved the release of Russian democracy activists and spies. Analysts note that while the swap does not signify a breakthrough in U.S.-Russia relations, it highlights the importance of keeping communication channels open. The exchange has raised concerns about the potential for future hostage-taking by authoritarian regimes.