President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris welcomed former prisoners Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan, and Alsu Kurmasheva upon their arrival at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland on August 1, 2024. This event marked the end of their detention in Russia as part of an extraordinary swap deal between Washington and Moscow. The swap involved at least six countries and is the largest prisoner exchange in post-Soviet history. President Biden called the exchange a “feat of diplomacy” that has ended their “agony.” Jailed US journalist Evan Gershkovich, a Russian intelligence colonel, and others were among the two dozen prisoners released in this historic exchange. The prisoners included Westerners and Russians imprisoned in Russia, with 10 Russians being exchanged for 16 Westerners. The release was celebrated by family members and government officials, highlighting the significance of the diplomatic efforts that led to their freedom. President Biden and Vice President Harris met with the freed prisoners, expressing their relief and joy at their return. The arrival of the released individuals was met with smiles, tears, and hugs, as they reunited with their loved ones at Joint Base Andrews. The event symbolized a moment of unity and hope, as the former prisoners embraced their newfound freedom alongside their families and the American government officials who welcomed them back home.
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