In a significant diplomatic move, Russia released American journalist Evan Gershkovich, along with over 20 others, in the largest prisoner swap with the West since the end of the Cold War. The Kremlin, with the help of Belarus, also freed US Marine Paul Whelan, Russian dissident Ilya Yashin, and German national Rico Krieger. In return, the US, Germany, and European countries handed over individuals accused of espionage or murder. The exchange occurred in Ankara, Turkey’s capital.
Turkey’s National Intelligence Organisation played a crucial role in mediating the operation. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan entrusted the chief of MIT to handle the case, leading to the smooth execution of the exchange involving 24 individuals from various countries.
The high-profile prisoners’ release, including prominent figures like Vladimir Kara-Murza and Ilya Yashin, marks a significant diplomatic breakthrough. This prisoner swap follows previous exchanges, showcasing a continued effort to prioritize humanitarian concerns over political tensions.
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