Historic US-Russia Prisoner Swap Sets 24 Free in Multinational Deal

The United States and Russia conducted the largest prisoner swap in post-Soviet history, freeing 24 individuals, including journalist Evan Gershkovich and several dissidents. The complex, multinational deal involved seven countries and followed years of clandestine negotiations, despite strained US-Russia relations due to the 2022 Ukraine invasion.

The United States and Russia have executed their largest prisoner exchange in post-Soviet history, with 24 individuals gaining their freedom, including journalists Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, as well as dissidents like Vladimir Kara-Murza. The landmark swap was officially confirmed by the White House on Thursday.

Spanning multiple years and intricate back-channel negotiations, the deal unfolded despite the frigid diplomatic climate following Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The agreement, which required considerable concessions from seven countries, was hailed as a "diplomatic feat" by President Joe Biden.

While the swap brings relief, it also raises concerns about potential imbalances and the possible encouragement it might give to foreign entities aiming to gain leverage over the US by detaining its citizens. However, it's seen as a major triumph for international diplomacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)