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A Russian court has sentenced Russian-American Ksenia Karelina to 12 years for treason over a small donation to Ukraine. The case highlights the risks of travel to Russia and the rise of hostage diplomacy.
Paul Whelan, a former U. S. marine, has been freed from Russian custody after nearly six years of detention on espionage charges. His release was part of a prisoner exchange amid strained U.S.-Russia relations.
A intricate prisoner exchange involving the U. S., Russia, and several allies culminated in the release of journalist Evan Gershkovich and ex-marine Paul Whelan. The deal, two years in the making, overcame numerous obstacles.
A major prisoner exchange between Russia and the West marks a significant diplomatic achievement for President Biden, despite Republican concerns over potential encouragement of hostage-taking.
Recent prisoner exchange in Ankara echoes Cold War-era swaps. From the "Bridge of Spies" to modern-day trades, these exchanges reflect evolving geopolitical tensions between East and West.