Three Americans, including journalist Evan Gershkovich, were freed by Russia in a historic prisoner swap and arrived in Texas for medical checks. Gershkovich, former marine Paul Whelan, and journalist Alsu Kurmasheva were greeted by President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris near Washington before heading to San Antonio for evaluations.
After being detained in Russia, Gershkovich expressed relief at being home, while Whelan thanked supporters for their efforts. The swap involved 10 Russians and 16 Westerners and Russians imprisoned in Russia, with Germany, Poland, and other countries also participating.
The exchange, following secret negotiations, included prisoners held for murder and espionage. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz praised the deal for its lifesaving impact. The swap was the first major exchange since 2010 and a significant moment in East-West relations.
The White House also revealed attempts to negotiate the release of Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny before his death earlier in the year.