Public statements made by US politicians or credible news sources like Reuters or BBC

Trump Criticizes US-Russia Prisoner Swap as 'Win for Putin,' Including Evan Gershkovich's Release

Aug 2, 2024, 04:41 PM

Former President Donald Trump has criticized the recent US-Russia prisoner swap, calling it a 'win for Putin.' The exchange led to the release of two Americans from Russian imprisonment, including journalist Evan Gershkovich. Trump expressed concerns that the deal, which he claims 'wouldn't have happened with us,' incentivizes more hostage-taking by Russia. Trump's comments were echoed by Senator Lindsey Graham, who also warned that such exchanges could encourage wrongful imprisonments in the future. Western media reported that the Kremlin is 'dictating terms' to the West.