Exchange took place: Biden announced the release of four Americans detained in Russia.

US President Joe Biden announced that American citizens who were detained in Russia would be released.

"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," Biden said.

The President emphasized the diplomatic nature of the agreement: "The agreement that secured their freedom was a diplomatic feat. Overall, we agreed on the release of 16 individuals from Russia - including five Germans and seven Russian citizens who were political prisoners in their country."

Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva, and Vladimir Kara-Murza are coming home. pic.twitter.com/wWGA83Ss8A

— President Biden (@POTUS) August 1, 2024

Biden expressed gratitude to the allies: "I am grateful to our allies who supported us throughout all the difficult, complex negotiations to achieve this result - including Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, and Turkey."

The US President declared his intent to continue efforts to return Americans: "Let me be clear: I will not stop working until every American unjustly detained or held hostage around the world is reunited with their family."

According to American media, in exchange, Russia will receive eight of its citizens. Among them are Vadim Krasikov, convicted in Germany for the murder of Zelimkhan Khangoshvili, as well as other individuals likely connected to Russian intelligence.