With Turkish mediation, last week’s prisoner exchange between Moscow and Washington became possible, according to Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. This significant swap, which took place on August 1, marked the largest exchange since the Cold War era. Eight Russian nationals held captive in the West were able to return home in exchange for 16 individuals, including two American spies.
Fidan emphasized the trust both the US and Russia have in Türkiye as a reliable partner, especially in such sensitive and crucial operations. The Turkish National Intelligence Organization (MIT) played a key role in coordinating the exchange, working closely with American and Russian counterparts throughout the process.
The exchange has been hailed as a “feat of diplomacy” by Washington, who expressed gratitude to the Turkish government for their efforts. The operation also involved several other countries, including Germany, Poland, Slovenia, and Norway, who willingly released imprisoned Russians to facilitate the swap.
Notable figures involved in the exchange included intelligence operative Vadim Krasikov and journalist Evan Gershkovich, among others. All individuals sent to the West by Russia received pardons as part of the exchange.
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