I remain concerned that continuing to trade innocent Americans for actual Russian criminals held in the U.S. and elsewhere sends a dangerous message to Putin that only encourages further hostage-taking by his regime,
There was no trust involved in this relationship or negotiation,
This is Momma. Do you hear me? It's your mom,
Some of these women and men have been unjustly held for years,
I will not stop working until every American wrongfully detained or held hostage around the world is reunited with their family.”
Since the arrest of Evan Gershkovich in March 2023, Jewish Federations have been actively in advocating for his release,
Evan, our community has been incomplete without you. Welcome home.”
All journalists & rights defenders detained solely for doing their jobs must be freed".
I am thrilled that wrongfully detained Americans are now free and reunited with their families, and I am grateful to the Government of Türkiye for extraordinary support in making today possible."
We are thankful for Türkiye's role as it relates to that (the swap deal),
Türkiye continues to be a vital partner and ally, and we will work with them on a tremendous deal of things, but I'm not going to speak to the specifics of this process,
The European Union is relieved by the release and transfer to freedom outside Russia and Belarus of a number of political prisoners, including EU citizens, facilitated with the help of Türkiye,
The right to peaceful opposition and freedom of the media are vital for any functioning society."
I welcome the release of 16 people unjustly imprisoned by the Russian regime."
EU will continue supporting and standing for all those illegally detained in Russia and elsewhere,
Their freedom should have never been in jeopardy,
There’s nothing that matters more to me than protecting Americans at home and abroad.”
Deals like this one come with tough calls,
I thanked Yulia for her courage in continuing her husband’s work and reaffirmed my commitment to stand with those fighting for freedom in Russia and around the world,
Despite facing multiple assassination attempts orchestrated by the Kremlin, his steadfast commitment to promoting human rights in Russia continues to inspire hope for a just future,