This article was first published by Politika.Kozlov.
Russia is rumored to be on the verge of freeing between 20 and 30 political prisoners and journalists in a potentially groundbreaking exchange with the United States and Germany. This potential swap could be the largest of its kind since the end of the Cold War.
Reports from independent Russian media have hinted at the preparation of up to 10 high-profile political prisoners for this anticipated exchange. However, a confidential source informed Politika.Kozlov that the actual number of individuals to be released could be much higher, possibly reaching 20 to 30 people.
Among the prisoners whose locations have become unknown are activists like Vladimir Kara-Murza, Oleg Orlov, and Lilia Chanysheva, along with former Moscow city councilman Ilya Yashin. The list of potential exchange candidates includes those associated with Alexei Navalny’s organizations, individuals critical of the war in Ukraine, as well as U.S. citizens.
The details of the exchange remain secretive, with speculation mounting after several prisoners were moved to undisclosed locations. Allegedly, special aircraft have been transporting political prisoners in secrecy, indicating that the exchange could take place imminently.