The dissident Ilya Yashin calls his release in a prisoner swap last week an ‘illegal expulsion’ by Russia that damages his ability to be heard at home.
Tag: Political Prisoners
How Two Russian Spies Went Deep Undercover With Their Children
A couple planted as sleeper spies in Slovenia posed as an Argentine art dealer and an entrepreneur. They were caught in December 2022 and sent to Moscow in a sweeping prisoner exchange last week.
Inside the Russian Prisoner Swap: Long Johns, Forensics and a Bound Killer
The complex choreography caught some prisoners being freed in their robes and slippers, unaware of their fates, and required forensic experts to make positive identifications.
Prisoner Deals Stoke Fears of Perverse ‘Incentive’ to Grab Americans
Hostile governments like Russia and Iran are often involved, and practical alternatives are hard to come by, experts say.
Germany Grapples With ‘Difficult Decision’ in Prisoner Swap
By releasing a convicted assassin, Germany played a critical role in securing the freedom of 16 people held in Russia. But the decision has raised questions about political influence in legal cases.
Russian Dissident Says He Was Traded Against His Will in Inmate Swap
Ilya Yashin, a prominent opposition politician, said he appreciated his freedom, but told his jailers he did not want it if it meant going into exile.
Hundreds of Prisoners in Russia, Including Americans, Were Left Behind in Swap
Hundreds of prisoners — including Americans and Russian political activists — are hoping for a diplomatic agreement that might secure their release.
With Hostage Swap, Biden Scores a Win as His Term Nears Its End
The prisoner exchange offered a measure of validation for President Biden soon after he abandoned his bid for re-election.
With Russia Prisoner Swap, Biden Scores a Win Near the End of His Term
The exchange offered a measure of validation for President Biden soon after he abandoned his bid for re-election.
Evan Gershkovich and 23 Others Freed From Russian Prisons in Major Swap
The Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was among 24 people released in a seven-nation, painstakingly negotiated deal that President Biden hailed as a triumph of diplomacy.