Two Russian dissidents, Vladimir Kara-Murza and Ilya Yashin, were released in a prisoner swap without signing a petition for mercy to Putin, vowing to return home one day. Kara-Murza hailed the swap as saving “16 human lives” and expressed his disbelief at his own release after fearing death in prison.
The exchange involved 24 people from seven countries, including US journalist Evan Gerschkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan. The dissidents pledge to continue advocating for political prisoners in Russia upon their release.
Yashin expressed conflicted feelings about being exiled, stating his desire to return to Russia despite acknowledging the challenges it poses. Kara-Murza emphasized the plight of innocent prisoners in Russia and his commitment to democratic reforms.
The freed dissidents, including artist Sasha Skochilenko, shared their joy and gratitude for being reunited with their loved ones. They also paid tribute to the late Alexei Navalny, holding Putin responsible for his death.
Kara-Murza concluded by stressing the need for a democratic Russia separate from Putin’s regime, expressing his determination to continue fighting for a better future for his country.