A plane carrying prisoners freed from Russia in exchange for the release of Russian detainees, including Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, has landed in Maryland at Joint Airbase Andrews. The exchange involved sixteen people being freed from Russian custody, including Gershkovich, former US marine Paul Whelan, and journalist Alsu Kurmasheva. The US government shared the first picture of the three holding the American flag shortly after their release.
President Biden and Vice President Harris welcomed the released Americans, emphasizing the importance of family and the nation’s identity. Biden addressed Putin, urging him to stop, and highlighted the significance of diplomacy. Harris praised President Biden for his understanding of diplomacy’s power.
Journalists from the Wall Street Journal gave Gershkovich a warm welcome, with hugs and phone calls. The freed Americans were reunited with their families, with Kurmasheva taking a selfie and Gershkovich hugging and kissing his mother. Gershkovich also interacted with Biden, with the press pool cheering. The exchange involved a complex operation at Ankara airport involving multiple countries.
The release of the prisoners marks a significant diplomatic event and emphasizes the importance of international relations in resolving conflicts and securing the safe return of individuals.
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Photo credit www.theguardian.com