US President Joe Biden on Thursday, addressed the recent prisoner exchange that freed detained American citizens held in Russia, including WSJ Journalist, Evan Gershkovich and former US marine Paul Whelan, saying "their agony is over". "Today, three American citizens and one American green card holder who were unjustly imprisoned in Russia are finally coming home: Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva, and Vladimir Kara-Murza," Biden said in a statement. Speaking from the State Dining room of the White House, Biden shared that he had spoken with the families of the released prisoners and that they are now “wheels up” and returning to the US. He confirmed that the released prisoners include 16 individuals from Russia: four Americans, five Germans, and seven Russian political prisoners. As he spoke, Biden was surrounded by the family members of those released. "All told, we've negotiated the release of 16 people from Russia - including five Germans and seven Russian citizens who were political prisoners in their own country," he said. "Some of these women and men have been unjustly held for years. All have endured unimaginable suffering and uncertainty. Today, their agony is over," he added. "It's an incredible relief for all the family members gathered here," Biden stated, adding, "It's a relief to the friends and colleagues all across the country who've been praying for this day for a long time." Biden glanced at the family members and said, "They never gave up hope," emphasising that the day was "all about families being able to be together again". Biden also expressed gratitude to the nations involved in the swap, calling it the largest since the Cold War, and said, "The deal that made this possible was a feat of diplomacy and friendship." Before concluding, Biden emphasised that such deals require tough decisions and are never guaranteed. He affirmed that the US will continue to advocate for all wrongly detained Americans globally. Biden also acknowledged the crucial support from US allies. He praised their bold decisions and logistical assistance, stressing that “alliances make our people safer” and underscoring the importance of dependable friends in such efforts. Earlier, in a written statement, he added, "And let me be clear: I will not stop working until every American wrongfully detained or held hostage around the world is reunited with their family. My Administration has now brought home over 70 such Americans, many of whom were in captivity since before I took office. Still, too many families are suffering and separated from their loved ones, and I have no higher priority as President than bringing those Americans home." Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva, and Vladimir Kara-Murza are coming home. pic.twitter.com/wWGA83Ss8A — President Biden (@POTUS) August 1, 2024 "Today, we celebrate the return of Paul, Evan, Alsu, and Vladimir and rejoice with their families. We remember all those still wrongfully detained or held hostage around the world. And reaffirm our pledge to their families: We see you. We are with you. And we will never stop working to bring your loved ones home where they belong." Biden said.
