Russia has agreed to release Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gerskovich and former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan in a prisoner swap with the U.S. The prisoners, jailed in Russia on espionage charges, are en route to destinations outside of Russia. The U.S. and its allies will return prisoners to Russia as part of the deal.
Key Points
Release of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gerskovich and former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan in a prisoner swap
Russia and the U.S. exchanging prisoners to resolve diplomatic issues
Uncertainty about the exact terms of the agreement
Pros
Release of wrongly accused individuals
Resolution of diplomatic tensions between Russia and the U.S.
Cons
Lack of transparency on the Russian prisoners released by the U.S.
Uncertainty about the concessions made by the U.S. for the release