Biden's first statement on Ankara hostage exchange: 'Grateful to our ally Turkiye'

Diplomatic Victory

In his statement, President Biden hailed the exchange as a triumph of diplomacy. The White House emphasized the successful negotiation and release of 26 individuals from seven countries.

The White House statement reads: "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. The agreement securing their freedom is a diplomatic victory. In total, we negotiated the release of 16 individuals from Russia, including five Germans and seven Russian citizens who were political prisoners in their own country. Many of these men and women have been unjustly detained for years. They have endured unimaginable suffering and uncertainty. Today, their ordeal ends.

Gratitude to Allies

"I am grateful to our allies, including Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, and Turkey, who stood by us through difficult and complex negotiations to reach this outcome. This is a powerful example of why it is so important to have friends around the world that you can rely on. Our alliances make Americans safer. And let me be clear: I will not stop working until every American unjustly detained or held hostage is reunited with their families. My administration has brought home over 70 Americans, many of whom were detained before I took office. There are still many families suffering from separation, and as President, there is no higher priority than bringing these Americans home. Today, we celebrate the return of Paul, Evan, Alsu, and Vladimir and rejoice with their families. We remember all those still unjustly detained or held hostage around the world. We reaffirm our commitment to their families: We see you. We stand with you. And we will never stop working to bring your loved ones home where they belong."