Diplomatic breakthrough: Kara-Murza* and Kurmasheva return home — Biden

The deal, which secured the freedom of three American citizens and one holder of an American green card, was a diplomatic breakthrough. This is stated in a statement by Joe Biden, which was published by his administration, the BBC reports.

"Today, three American citizens and one holder of an American green card, unjustly imprisoned in Russia: Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva and Vladimir Kara-Murza❶. The deal that secured their freedom was a diplomatic breakthrough," the statement said.

It is noted that in general, the parties agreed on the release of 16 people from Russia, including five German citizens and seven Russian citizens "who were political prisoners."

"I am grateful to our allies who have supported us through difficult and difficult negotiations to achieve this result: Among them are Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway and Turkey," Biden said.

❶An individual performing the functions of a foreign agent