Emotional Reunions as Prisoners Freed in Historic U.S.-Russia Swap

Families of prisoners, including journalist Evan Gershkovich, had emotional reunions after a major U.S.-Russia prisoner swap, the biggest since the Cold War. The White House video showed heartfelt moments during phone calls. President Biden expressed gratitude as the exchange, involving 24 prisoners, concluded successfully.

In a poignant display of emotion, tears of joy flowed in the Oval Office as families of prisoners like Evan Gershkovich, freed by Russia, spoke to their loved ones for the first time. These heart-wrenching moments were captured in a White House video shared on Thursday.

"This is momma. Do you hear me? It's your mom," Gershkovich's mother said during the emotional reunion. Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter, was among those freed in the largest U.S.-Russia prisoner swap since the Cold War, according to President Joe Biden's social media post.

Addressing the released detainees, Biden said, "You've been wrongfully detained for a long time, and we are glad you are home." The swap, which included ex-U.S. Marine Paul Whelan and Russian hitman Vadim Krasikov among 24 prisoners, involved a year-long, secret negotiation, according to the White House.

"Every parent, child, spouse and loved one who joined me in the Oval Office today has been praying for this day for a long time," Biden posted. In the video, he informs the families that the detainees are on their way home. Russian opposition politician Vladimir Kara-Murza, another detainee, told his family through tears, "I still think I am sleeping in my prison cell in Omsk instead of hearing your voice."

(With inputs from agencies.)