The historic release of American prisoners in 9 incredible pictures

sjones

2024-08-02 12:18:51

Credit: Getty Images

Paul Whelan and Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich were released from a Russian prison as part of an international trade agreement. US President Joe Biden described the trade as a “feat of diplomacy and friendship”. 16 people were released from Russia, including four from the USA, five Germans and seven Russian citizens who were “political prisoners in their own country”. A look at the arrival of some of the freed prisoners on American soil in 9 incredible and touching photos.

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris

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Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, prepare to greet Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich and Alsou Kurmasheva, all prisoners released by Russia, upon their arrival at Joint Base Andrews, August 1, 2024, at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.

Evan Gershkovich

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Former Russian detainee Evan Gershkovich is greeted by U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris upon his arrival at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland.

Evan Gershkovich

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Released prisoner Evan Gershkovich walks on the tarmac after his return to the U.S.

Alsou Kurmasheva

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Released prisoner Alsou Kurmasheva gets off the plane.

Paul Whelan

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Joe Biden greets Paul Whelan, a prisoner released by Russia.

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris

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President Joe Biden and Democratic presidential candidate U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris welcome Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich and Alsou Kurmasheva, all prisoners released by Russia, upon their arrival on August 1, 2024 at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.

On the tarmac

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Joe Biden and Democratic presidential candidate U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris walk on the tarmac after greeting released prisoners Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich and Alsou Kurmasheva following their arrival at Joint Base Andrews.