Russia on Thursday (August 1) released incarcerated Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan as part of a major prisoner swap with the United States, Bloomberg reported while citing people familiar with the situation.&nbsp;

The men were&nbsp;jailed in Russia on espionage charges that they and the US deny.

The prisoners were flown to Turkey's capital Ankara from Russia, the United States, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway and Belarus under the complex deal, the Turkish presidency said.

"Eight Russian citizens who were detained and imprisoned in a series of NATO countries, were returned home," Russia's state-run news agencies quoted the FSB as saying in a statement.

It added: "The Russians were exchanged for a group of people who were acting in the interests of foreign states to the detriment of the security of the Russian Federation."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-evan-gershkovich-the-us-journalist-arrested-in-russia-for-espionage-577732">Who is Evan Gershkovich, the US journalist arrested in Russia for espionage</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Russia prisoner exchange: West's side of bargain</h2>

Under the deal, the US and its allies returned prisoners to Russia that they hold, the Bloomberg report added while citing people familiar with the matter. The Kremlin released the dissident Vladimir Kara-Murza as part of the agreement.

An activist with dual Russian-British citizenship, Kara-Murza, 42, campaigned against Vladimir Putin's rule and was sentenced to 25 years in prison in April last year on treason charges.

For months, Washington and other Western capitals were negotiating with Moscow for the release of Gershkovich and Whelan. Both of them have been designated as wrongly detained by the US State Department.

In total, 10 Russians — including two minors — were exchanged for 16 Westerners and Russians imprisoned in Russia, according to a statement released by the Turkish presidency.

This was the first exchange between Russia and the West since star US basketball player Brittney Griner returned home in return for convicted Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout in December 2022.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Thursday (August 1) released incarcerated Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan as part of a major prisoner swap with the United States, Bloomberg reported while citing people familiar with the situation.

Russia on Thursday (August 1) released incarcerated Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan as part of a major prisoner swap with the United States, Bloomberg reported while citing people familiar with the situation. The men were jailed in Russia on espionage charges that they and the US deny. The prisoners were flown to Turkey's capital Ankara from Russia, the United States, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway and Belarus under the complex deal, the Turkish presidency said. "Eight Russian citizens who were detained and imprisoned in a series of NATO countries, were returned home," Russia's state-run news agencies quoted the FSB as saying in a statement. It added: "The Russians were exchanged for a group of people who were acting in the interests of foreign states to the detriment of the security of the Russian Federation." Also read | Who is Evan Gershkovich, the US journalist arrested in Russia for espionage Russia prisoner exchange: West's side of bargain Under the deal, the US and its allies returned prisoners to Russia that they hold, the Bloomberg report added while citing people familiar with the matter. The Kremlin released the dissident Vladimir Kara-Murza as part of the agreement. An activist with dual Russian-British citizenship, Kara-Murza, 42, campaigned against Vladimir Putin's rule and was sentenced to 25 years in prison in April last year on treason charges. For months, Washington and other Western capitals were negotiating with Moscow for the release of Gershkovich and Whelan. Both of them have been designated as wrongly detained by the US State Department. In total, 10 Russians — including two minors — were exchanged for 16 Westerners and Russians imprisoned in Russia, according to a statement released by the Turkish presidency. This was the first exchange between Russia and the West since star US basketball player Brittney Griner returned home in return for convicted Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout in December 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia releases US journalist Evan Gershkovich, ex-marine Paul Whelan in biggest prisoner swap since Cold War

Former US Marine Paul Whelan (53), who is in a Russian prison over charges of spying, has told BBC that he feels "abandoned" and betrayed by his home country. Whelan has been handed a 16-year jail sentence for spying and has been in prison since 2018. US government says spying charges against Whelan don't have merit.

Whelan is serving a sentence in a prison in Mordavia, a Russian region infamous for its harsh jails. Mordavia is about 400 kilometres (250 miles) southeast of Moscow.

A prisoner swap was negotiated recently between Russia and the US. Whelan was left out.

"They've basically abandoned me here," he told BBC.

"I'm extremely concerned."&nbsp;

"With each case, my case is going to the back of the line. They've kind of just left me in the dust. And at this point, this juncture, it's very concerning."

Whelan holds UK, Irish and Canadian passports as well. At the time of his arrest in 2018, Whelan worked in security for a US company that made vehicle parts.

He has consistently denied charges against him and has said that evidence against him was falsified.

According to BBC, Whelan now works in a prison factory stitching work overalls and hats and his prison barracks are unheated.

His family said in November that Whelan was assaulted by a new prisoner and was "hit in the face".&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that he wanted Russia and the US to find a solution to release Whelan and Evan Gershkovich. The latter is a Wall Street Journal reporter.

<h2>The case of Evan Gershkovich</h2>

Gershkovich was arrested In Yekaterinburg in March on spying allegations. He was on a reporting trip.

A Moscow court ruled on December 14 that he will be held in detention until January 30. If convicted, he faces 20 years in prison.

"There are contacts on this issue and dialogue is ongoing, but it's not straightforward," Putin said during his end-of-year press conference on December 14.

"I hope we will find a solution. But the US side should also hear us and make a decision that will suit the Russian Federation."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Former US Marine Paul Whelan (53), who is in a Russian prison over charges of spying, has told BBC that he feels "abandoned" and betrayed by his home country. Whelan has been handed a 16-year jail sentence for spying and has been in prison since 2018.

Former US Marine Paul Whelan (53), who is in a Russian prison over charges of spying, has told BBC that he feels "abandoned" and betrayed by his home country. Whelan has been handed a 16-year jail sentence for spying and has been in prison since 2018. US government says spying charges against Whelan don't have merit. Whelan is serving a sentence in a prison in Mordavia, a Russian region infamous for its harsh jails. Mordavia is about 400 kilometres (250 miles) southeast of Moscow. A prisoner swap was negotiated recently between Russia and the US. Whelan was left out. "They've basically abandoned me here," he told BBC. "I'm extremely concerned." "With each case, my case is going to the back of the line. They've kind of just left me in the dust. And at this point, this juncture, it's very concerning." Whelan holds UK, Irish and Canadian passports as well. At the time of his arrest in 2018, Whelan worked in security for a US company that made vehicle parts. He has consistently denied charges against him and has said that evidence against him was falsified. According to BBC, Whelan now works in a prison factory stitching work overalls and hats and his prison barracks are unheated. His family said in November that Whelan was assaulted by a new prisoner and was "hit in the face". Earlier this month, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that he wanted Russia and the US to find a solution to release Whelan and Evan Gershkovich. The latter is a Wall Street Journal reporter. The case of Evan Gershkovich Gershkovich was arrested In Yekaterinburg in March on spying allegations. He was on a reporting trip. A Moscow court ruled on December 14 that he will be held in detention until January 30. If convicted, he faces 20 years in prison. "There are contacts on this issue and dialogue is ongoing, but it's not straightforward," Putin said during his end-of-year press conference on December 14. "I hope we will find a solution. But the US side should also hear us and make a decision that will suit the Russian Federation." (With inputs from agencies)

I feel 'abandoned', says ex-US marine Whelan held in Russian prison

Paul Whelan, the former active duty US Marine, who has been jailed in Russia on espionage charges, was reportedly assaulted on Tuesday (Nov 28) by a fellow inmate, his family said.&nbsp;

The United States claims that Whelan was wrongfully detained by Russia. He is currently at the labour camp where he has been serving a 16-year sentence since 2018.&nbsp;

As quoted in media, his brother David Whelan said on Tuesday that Whelan was "hit in the face" by a new prisoner, who broke his glasses.&nbsp;

He further informed that the incident occurred in a clothing workshop in the Mordovia penal colony in central Russia. He said that guards do not enter that part of the prison, and other inmates eventually came to Whelan's aid.&nbsp;

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David said in an email that Paul detailed the incident in a phone call to his parents. He&nbsp;further added&nbsp;Paul as saying that a fellow prisoner blocked part of a production line as he was working at a sewing table.&nbsp;

When Paul asked the other prisoner to move, "the prisoner hit Paul in the face, breaking Paul's glasses in the process, and attempted to hit him a second time," his brother wrote.&nbsp;

David added in the mail: "Paul stood up to block the second hit and other prisoners intervened to prevent the prisoner from continuing to attack Paul".&nbsp;

David also stated that his brother described the attack as "relatively minor".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/politically-powerful-koch-network-puts-weight-behind-haley-in-gop-prez-race-664064">Politically powerful Koch network puts weight behind Haley in GOP prez race</a>&nbsp;

He added that "Paul is a target because he is an American, and anti-American sentiment is not uncommon among the other prisoners".&nbsp;

He admitted in the mail that "Paul says he believes the prison administration is taking the attack seriously".&nbsp;

CBS News said that a State Department spokesperson told the outlet that the US Embassy in Moscow has taken stock of the matter. They have been in contact with Paul over the phone and he is receiving medical treatment.&nbsp;

"We call on Russia to ensure Paul Whelan and all US&nbsp;citizen detainees are safe. We urge the Russian government to ensure fair treatment and appropriate medical care for all US&nbsp;citizens detained in Russia. Russia should immediately release Paul Whelan," the spokesperson said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/french-serial-killers-widow-on-trial-over-decades-old-murders-664027">French serial killer's widow on trial over decades-old murders</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Paul Whelan's arrest&nbsp;</h2>

Whelan was working in security for a US vehicle parts firm and has always claimed that the evidence against him was manufactured when he was arrested in Moscow in 2018. In&nbsp;2020, he was sentenced to 16 years in prison.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Paul Whelan, the former active duty US Marine, who has been jailed in Russia on espionage charges, was reportedly assaulted on Tuesday (Nov 28) by a fellow inmate, his family said.

Paul Whelan, the former active duty US Marine, who has been jailed in Russia on espionage charges, was reportedly assaulted on Tuesday (Nov 28) by a fellow inmate, his family said. The United States claims that Whelan was wrongfully detained by Russia. He is currently at the labour camp where he has been serving a 16-year sentence since 2018. As quoted in media, his brother David Whelan said on Tuesday that Whelan was "hit in the face" by a new prisoner, who broke his glasses. He further informed that the incident occurred in a clothing workshop in the Mordovia penal colony in central Russia. He said that guards do not enter that part of the prison, and other inmates eventually came to Whelan's aid. Also read: Alex Murdaugh sentenced to additional 27 years in state prison for financial crimes David said in an email that Paul detailed the incident in a phone call to his parents. He further added Paul as saying that a fellow prisoner blocked part of a production line as he was working at a sewing table. When Paul asked the other prisoner to move, "the prisoner hit Paul in the face, breaking Paul's glasses in the process, and attempted to hit him a second time," his brother wrote. David added in the mail: "Paul stood up to block the second hit and other prisoners intervened to prevent the prisoner from continuing to attack Paul". David also stated that his brother described the attack as "relatively minor". Also read: Politically powerful Koch network puts weight behind Haley in GOP prez race He added that "Paul is a target because he is an American, and anti-American sentiment is not uncommon among the other prisoners". He admitted in the mail that "Paul says he believes the prison administration is taking the attack seriously". CBS News said that a State Department spokesperson told the outlet that the US Embassy in Moscow has taken stock of the matter. They have been in contact with Paul over the phone and he is receiving medical treatment. "We call on Russia to ensure Paul Whelan and all US citizen detainees are safe. We urge the Russian government to ensure fair treatment and appropriate medical care for all US citizens detained in Russia. Russia should immediately release Paul Whelan," the spokesperson said in a statement. Also read: French serial killer's widow on trial over decades-old murders Paul Whelan's arrest Whelan was working in security for a US vehicle parts firm and has always claimed that the evidence against him was manufactured when he was arrested in Moscow in 2018. In 2020, he was sentenced to 16 years in prison. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-US Marine Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, assaulted by fellow inmate

Former US marine veteran Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, appeared in a rare video broadcasted by Russian state media. The video showed him in the prison where he is currently serving a 16-year sentence on espionage charges.

The US government has dismissed the charges.

Russia Today television network aired the video on Monday and also shared it on X, formerly known as Twitter.

In the video, Whelan can be seen in black prison attire at a penal colony situated in Russia's Mordovia region, about 566 km east of Moscow.

Whelan was accused of espionage by Russia in 2018 and subsequently convicted in 2020.

The video footage showed the former US marine operating a sewing machine when an English-speaking reporter requests an interview. Politely, Whelan declined, stating, "Sir, you understand when I say that I can't do an interview, which means that I can't answer any questions."

In different segments of the video, Whelan could be seen engaging in conversations with fellow inmates within the prison yard and having a meal in the cafeteria.

Following the video's release, Whelan's brother, David Whelan, expressed his appreciation for the chance to see his brother's appearance after such a prolonged period.&nbsp;

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Paul Whelan is a US citizen serving time in a high security prison since 2020 who was convicted of spying on Moscow for Washington and yet the White House has shown little interest in fighting for his release 
 
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According to David Whelan, a prior interview request from the same network in May had led to retaliatory actions by prison staff due to his brother's non-participation.

Efforts to secure Paul Whelan's release have persisted, including recent communication between Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Whelan.

Also watch |&nbsp;Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich appeals extension of pretrial detention in Russia

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Furthermore, American citizen and Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich has faced espionage charges and faces a potential&nbsp;sentence for up to 20 years in a Russian prison.

The Biden administration has asserted its commitment to secure the release of both Whelan and Gershkovich.

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Former US marine veteran Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, appeared in a rare video broadcasted by Russian state media. The video showed him in the prison where he is currently serving a 16-year sentence on espionage charges.

Former US marine veteran Paul Whelan, imprisoned in Russia, appeared in a rare video broadcasted by Russian state media. The video showed him in the prison where he is currently serving a 16-year sentence on espionage charges. The US government has dismissed the charges. Russia Today television network aired the video on Monday and also shared it on X, formerly known as Twitter. In the video, Whelan can be seen in black prison attire at a penal colony situated in Russia's Mordovia region, about 566 km east of Moscow. Whelan was accused of espionage by Russia in 2018 and subsequently convicted in 2020. The video footage showed the former US marine operating a sewing machine when an English-speaking reporter requests an interview. Politely, Whelan declined, stating, "Sir, you understand when I say that I can't do an interview, which means that I can't answer any questions." In different segments of the video, Whelan could be seen engaging in conversations with fellow inmates within the prison yard and having a meal in the cafeteria. Following the video's release, Whelan's brother, David Whelan, expressed his appreciation for the chance to see his brother's appearance after such a prolonged period. Paul Whelan is a US citizen serving time in a high security prison since 2020 who was convicted of spying on Moscow for Washington and yet the White House has shown little interest in fighting for his release Follow us on Rumble: https://t.co/Nuc9nUzlmx pic.twitter.com/5kjfUhTOhV — RT (@RT_com) August 28, 2023 × According to David Whelan, a prior interview request from the same network in May had led to retaliatory actions by prison staff due to his brother's non-participation. Efforts to secure Paul Whelan's release have persisted, including recent communication between Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Whelan. Also watch | Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich appeals extension of pretrial detention in Russia × Furthermore, American citizen and Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich has faced espionage charges and faces a potential sentence for up to 20 years in a Russian prison. The Biden administration has asserted its commitment to secure the release of both Whelan and Gershkovich. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch: Rare footage of former US marine Paul Whelan inside Russian prison

The White House has said that US President Joe Biden plans to meet with family members of basketball star Brittney Griner and former Marine Paul Whelan that are currently in jail in Russia.

More than a month after his administration announced it had proposed a deal for their return to Moscow, Biden will host separate meetings on Friday with Griner's wife and Whelan's sister.

Amid sustained but so far unsuccessful efforts by the administration to secure the Americans’ release, the separate meetings are to be the first in-person encounter between Biden and the families.

According to White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, "We would love to be saying today that we have news about Brittney and Paul coming home today. Unfortunately, that is not where the negotiations are at this time."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russia-us-in-talks-over-merchant-of-death-for-basketballer-brittny-griner-moscow-506538">Also read |&nbsp;Russia, US in talks over 'Merchant of Death' swap for basketballer Brittney Griner: Moscow</a>

Experts believe that there is no sign that a breakthrough is imminent despite plans for the White House meetings.

Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) star Griner has been held in Russia since February on drug-related charges and was sentenced to nine years in prison last month after pleading guilty and has appealed the punishment.

After being convicted of spying in Russia, Whelan was sentenced in 2020 to 16 years in jail even though his family called the espionage-related charges false.

Placing their cases with the office of its top hostage negotiator, the US government regards both as wrongfully detained.

Underscoring the administration’s commitment to bring them home, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in late July that Washington had made a "substantial offer" to Moscow to secure the return of the two Americans.

There have been few public developments on the issue over the past weeks although Russia's foreign ministry said last month it was engaged in "quiet diplomacy" about a potential prisoner swap.

Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, negotiations are taking place amid ruptured relations between Washington and Moscow.

Saying such efforts could complicate official talks for their release, the State Department on Wednesday warned against private efforts to try to secure Griner and Whelan's release after former New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson travelled to Moscow.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The White House has said that US President Joe Biden plans to meet with family members of basketball star Brittney Griner and former Marine Paul Whelan that are currently in jail in Russia.

The White House has said that US President Joe Biden plans to meet with family members of basketball star Brittney Griner and former Marine Paul Whelan that are currently in jail in Russia. More than a month after his administration announced it had proposed a deal for their return to Moscow, Biden will host separate meetings on Friday with Griner's wife and Whelan's sister. Amid sustained but so far unsuccessful efforts by the administration to secure the Americans’ release, the separate meetings are to be the first in-person encounter between Biden and the families. According to White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, "We would love to be saying today that we have news about Brittney and Paul coming home today. Unfortunately, that is not where the negotiations are at this time." Also read | Russia, US in talks over 'Merchant of Death' swap for basketballer Brittney Griner: Moscow Experts believe that there is no sign that a breakthrough is imminent despite plans for the White House meetings. Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) star Griner has been held in Russia since February on drug-related charges and was sentenced to nine years in prison last month after pleading guilty and has appealed the punishment. After being convicted of spying in Russia, Whelan was sentenced in 2020 to 16 years in jail even though his family called the espionage-related charges false. Placing their cases with the office of its top hostage negotiator, the US government regards both as wrongfully detained. Underscoring the administration’s commitment to bring them home, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in late July that Washington had made a "substantial offer" to Moscow to secure the return of the two Americans. There have been few public developments on the issue over the past weeks although Russia's foreign ministry said last month it was engaged in "quiet diplomacy" about a potential prisoner swap. Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, negotiations are taking place amid ruptured relations between Washington and Moscow. Saying such efforts could complicate official talks for their release, the State Department on Wednesday warned against private efforts to try to secure Griner and Whelan's release after former New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson travelled to Moscow. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

White House says Biden to meet with relatives of two Americans jailed in Russia

From Brittney Griner to Paul Whelan: Who are the Americans held captive abroad?

US President Joe Biden’s administration has offered Russia a deal to secure the release of its two citizens held by Moscow.

Citing people close to the matter, CNN reported that in order to bring home Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan, Russian arms trafficker Viktor Bout has been offered in exchange.

It quoted a senior administration official as saying, “We communicated a substantial offer that we believe could be successful based on a history of conversations with the Russians.”

For the first time since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with his Kremlin counterpart.

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Blinken told reporters that a phone call “in the coming days” with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov “will not be a negotiation about Ukraine.”

It will focus on the release of detained Americans along with a grain deal to avoid a food crisis.

Reflecting the mounting pressure on the administration over Griner and Whelan, the public acknowledgment of the offer comes at a time when the US has otherwise shunned Russia.

While WNBA star Griner was jailed in Moscow for drug possession, Whelan has been held by Russia for alleged espionage since 2018.

Claiming concerns that they only incentivise countries to detain Americans so they can be used as bargaining chips, the US government has long resisted prisoner swaps.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden’s administration has offered Russia a deal to secure the release of its two citizens held by Moscow. Citing people close to the matter, CNN reported that in order to bring home Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan, Russian arms trafficker Viktor Bout has been offered in exchange.

US President Joe Biden’s administration has offered Russia a deal to secure the release of its two citizens held by Moscow. Citing people close to the matter, CNN reported that in order to bring home Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan, Russian arms trafficker Viktor Bout has been offered in exchange. It quoted a senior administration official as saying, “We communicated a substantial offer that we believe could be successful based on a history of conversations with the Russians.” For the first time since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with his Kremlin counterpart. × Blinken told reporters that a phone call “in the coming days” with Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov “will not be a negotiation about Ukraine.” It will focus on the release of detained Americans along with a grain deal to avoid a food crisis. Reflecting the mounting pressure on the administration over Griner and Whelan, the public acknowledgment of the offer comes at a time when the US has otherwise shunned Russia. While WNBA star Griner was jailed in Moscow for drug possession, Whelan has been held by Russia for alleged espionage since 2018. Claiming concerns that they only incentivise countries to detain Americans so they can be used as bargaining chips, the US government has long resisted prisoner swaps. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Biden offers deal to Russia for release of its two citizens held by Moscow

President Vladimir Putin has renewed an offer to swap prisoners as he is holding his first summit Wednesday with Joe Biden, who has come under growing pressure to win the release of Americans from Russian jails.

Biden, who has vowed a clear-eyed, tougher approach with Putin than his predecessors at the start of their terms, has already made clear that he will raise the fate of jailed Americans when he meets the Russian leader in Geneva.

Here are some of the individuals who could be freed if such a swap was agreed upon.

PAUL WHELAN, 51

Washington has demanded the release of Paul Whelan, a former US&nbsp;Marine convicted of espionage last June and sentenced to 16 years in jail. Whelan has denied spying and says he was set up in a sting operation.

Moscow said that Whelan, who holds US, British, Canadian, and Irish passports, had been caught red-handed with classified information in a Moscow hotel room where agents from the Federal Security Service detained him on Dec. 28, 2018.

Whelan said he was in Russia for a wedding and on holiday and set up by a Russian man he thought was a friend.

Whelan, who is being held in a high-security prison eight hours drive from Moscow, denounced the proceedings against him last June as a "sham trial". Russia has sent mixed signals as to whether it would be ready to free him in a deal.

TREVOR REED, 29

The United States has criticised the trial of Trevor Reed, another former US&nbsp;Marine jailed for nine years last July, as the "theater of the absurd" and lacking serious evidence.

Russia convicted Reed, a student at the University of North Texas, of endangering the lives of two police officers who had detained him in August 2019 when he grabbed an officer who was behind the wheel of a car, causing the vehicle to swerve dangerously.

Reed said he could not remember the events because he was drunk when detained after leaving a party in Moscow, but denied the charge in court after hearing what he said was the flimsy evidence presented during the trial and the investigation's failure to obtain video evidence that could prove his innocence.

In comments which upset his family, Putin, in an NBC interview before the summit, described Reed as "a drunk" and "a troublemaker."

"As they say here, he got himself shitfaced and started a fight. Among other things, he hit a cop," said Putin.

VIKTOR BOUT, 54

The United States is holding Viktor Bout, a Russian arms trafficker serving a 25-year prison sentence for plotting to sell missiles to people he thought were Colombian rebels.

Bout, subject of a book called “Merchant of Death” and inspiration for a film “Lord of War” starring Nicolas Cage, was arrested in Thailand in 2008.

US&nbsp;authorities said he had agreed to sell arms to US&nbsp;undercover agents posing as Colombian guerrillas planning to attack American soldiers.

Bout, who protested his innocence, was convicted in 2011 and Russia has long sought his release.

He is now in a prison in Marion, Illinois, and only eligible for release in January 2030.

KONSTANTIN YAROSHENKO, 52

Russia has long urged Washington to release pilot Konstantin Yaroshenko, who is serving 20 years in the United States for conspiracy to smuggle cocaine into the country. He was arrested in Liberia in 2010 in a DEA sting operation and flown to the United States.

Moscow has portrayed Yaroshenko, who says he is innocent, as the victim of an illegal kidnapping by Washington.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov in 2019 called for Yaroshenko to be freed in exchange for "an American or Americans who are serving their sentence here."

Putin, in his pre-summit NBC interview, mentioned Yaroshenko.

"Our pilot Yaroshenko has been in prison in the US&nbsp;for ... I don't know how many years,&nbsp;15, maybe&nbsp;20&nbsp;years. And there also the problem seems to be a common crime. If the US&nbsp;side is prepared to discuss it, so are we."

(With inputs from agencies)

President Vladimir Putin has renewed an offer to swap prisoners as he is holding his first summit Wednesday with Joe Biden, who has come under growing pressure to win the release of Americans from Russian jails.

President Vladimir Putin has renewed an offer to swap prisoners as he is holding his first summit Wednesday with Joe Biden, who has come under growing pressure to win the release of Americans from Russian jails. Biden, who has vowed a clear-eyed, tougher approach with Putin than his predecessors at the start of their terms, has already made clear that he will raise the fate of jailed Americans when he meets the Russian leader in Geneva. Here are some of the individuals who could be freed if such a swap was agreed upon. PAUL WHELAN, 51 Washington has demanded the release of Paul Whelan, a former US Marine convicted of espionage last June and sentenced to 16 years in jail. Whelan has denied spying and says he was set up in a sting operation. Moscow said that Whelan, who holds US, British, Canadian, and Irish passports, had been caught red-handed with classified information in a Moscow hotel room where agents from the Federal Security Service detained him on Dec. 28, 2018. Whelan said he was in Russia for a wedding and on holiday and set up by a Russian man he thought was a friend. Whelan, who is being held in a high-security prison eight hours drive from Moscow, denounced the proceedings against him last June as a "sham trial". Russia has sent mixed signals as to whether it would be ready to free him in a deal. TREVOR REED, 29 The United States has criticised the trial of Trevor Reed, another former US Marine jailed for nine years last July, as the "theater of the absurd" and lacking serious evidence. Russia convicted Reed, a student at the University of North Texas, of endangering the lives of two police officers who had detained him in August 2019 when he grabbed an officer who was behind the wheel of a car, causing the vehicle to swerve dangerously. Reed said he could not remember the events because he was drunk when detained after leaving a party in Moscow, but denied the charge in court after hearing what he said was the flimsy evidence presented during the trial and the investigation's failure to obtain video evidence that could prove his innocence. In comments which upset his family, Putin, in an NBC interview before the summit, described Reed as "a drunk" and "a troublemaker." "As they say here, he got himself shitfaced and started a fight. Among other things, he hit a cop," said Putin. VIKTOR BOUT, 54 The United States is holding Viktor Bout, a Russian arms trafficker serving a 25-year prison sentence for plotting to sell missiles to people he thought were Colombian rebels. Bout, subject of a book called “Merchant of Death” and inspiration for a film “Lord of War” starring Nicolas Cage, was arrested in Thailand in 2008. US authorities said he had agreed to sell arms to US undercover agents posing as Colombian guerrillas planning to attack American soldiers. Bout, who protested his innocence, was convicted in 2011 and Russia has long sought his release. He is now in a prison in Marion, Illinois, and only eligible for release in January 2030. KONSTANTIN YAROSHENKO, 52 Russia has long urged Washington to release pilot Konstantin Yaroshenko, who is serving 20 years in the United States for conspiracy to smuggle cocaine into the country. He was arrested in Liberia in 2010 in a DEA sting operation and flown to the United States. Moscow has portrayed Yaroshenko, who says he is innocent, as the victim of an illegal kidnapping by Washington. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov in 2019 called for Yaroshenko to be freed in exchange for "an American or Americans who are serving their sentence here." Putin, in his pre-summit NBC interview, mentioned Yaroshenko. "Our pilot Yaroshenko has been in prison in the US for ... I don't know how many years, 15, maybe 20 years. And there also the problem seems to be a common crime. If the US side is prepared to discuss it, so are we." (With inputs from agencies)

These prisoners are likely to walk free if Biden-Putin agree exchange deal

A Russian court on Monday sentenced ex-US marine Paul Whelan to 16 years in prison in an espionage case.

The trial was held behind closed doors since Whelan was accused of gathering state secrets, however, he called it a "sham trial" and asked for US President Donald Trump's intervention.

Whelan, 50, was arrested in December 2018 when he was on a visit to Russia for a wedding. He took a USB drive from an acquaintance&nbsp;which he said he thought contained holiday photographs. The US ambassador to Russia had said earlier that was an unfair trial with US&nbsp;secretary of state Mike Pompeo demanding his release last month.

Whelan's health had deteriorated during the trial&nbsp;as US secretary of state demanded his release, saying: "It is unacceptable that Paul Whelan has been denied necessary medical treatment until his condition became dire."

However, Russian foreign ministry said he was receiving "all necessary medical assistance."

Russia's prosecutor during the trial, however, stressed that the ex-marine had information on Russia's state secret. Whelan was earlier "dishonorably discharged" as a marine.

The verdict comes even as relations between Russia and the US continue to be on the edge with the Trump administration having put sanctions on the country.

A Russian court on Monday sentenced ex-US marine Paul Whelan to 16 years in prison in an espionage case. The trial was held behind closed doors since Whelan was accused of gathering state secrets, however, he called it a "sham trial" and asked for US President Donald Trump's intervention.

A Russian court on Monday sentenced ex-US marine Paul Whelan to 16 years in prison in an espionage case. The trial was held behind closed doors since Whelan was accused of gathering state secrets, however, he called it a "sham trial" and asked for US President Donald Trump's intervention. Whelan, 50, was arrested in December 2018 when he was on a visit to Russia for a wedding. He took a USB drive from an acquaintance which he said he thought contained holiday photographs. The US ambassador to Russia had said earlier that was an unfair trial with US secretary of state Mike Pompeo demanding his release last month. Whelan's health had deteriorated during the trial as US secretary of state demanded his release, saying: "It is unacceptable that Paul Whelan has been denied necessary medical treatment until his condition became dire." However, Russian foreign ministry said he was receiving "all necessary medical assistance." Russia's prosecutor during the trial, however, stressed that the ex-marine had information on Russia's state secret. Whelan was earlier "dishonorably discharged" as a marine. The verdict comes even as relations between Russia and the US continue to be on the edge with the Trump administration having put sanctions on the country.

Russian court sentences US ex-marine to 16 years in prison in spy case

Russia called on the United States on Monday to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-underestimating-russias-hybrid-warfare-pentagon-white-paper-232075">free Russian pilot Konstantin</a> Yaroshenko and proposed a prisoner swap with Washington to win the release of any American national held in Russia, Interfax news agency reported.

The comments may fuel speculation that Moscow is seeking a prisoner exchange involving Paul Whelan, a former US Marine arrested and held in Russia on spying charges that he denies and that he has likened to a political kidnap.

Yaroshenko is a pilot serving 20 years in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-russia-will-do-all-it-can-to-improve-ties-with-us-231474"> United States for conspiracy to smuggle </a>cocaine into the country. He was arrested by US special forces in Liberia in 2010.

"Free Yaroshenko, swap him for an American or Americans who are serving their sentence here," Russian deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov was quoted as saying by Interfax.

In later comments on the proposal carried by RIA news agency, Ryabkov said it would not be right to discuss exchanging Whelan given that he had yet to face trial in Russia. He said he had other US nationals in mind as possible swaps.

Whelan, who holds US, British, Canadian and Irish passports, was detained in a Moscow hotel room on December 28th.

Appearing in court last month, he appealed to US President Donald Trump to intervene to help him, saying "we cannot keep America great unless we aggressively protect" US nationals wherever they are.

Whelan said in May that he was being threatened in prison and subjected to humiliation.

The US embassy in Moscow said on Monday it had asked the Russian government to allow an independent assessment of his condition, but that the request had been denied and that Whelan's condition had worsened.

Ryabkov also urged the United States on Monday to return confiscated Russian diplomatic properties as a first step towards mending battered relations between the countries.

Ryabkov spoke a few days after Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met on the sidelines of a G20 summit in the Japanese city of Osaka.

Russia called on the United States on Monday to free Russian pilot Konstantin Yaroshenko and proposed a prisoner swap with Washington to win the release of any American national held in Russia, Interfax news agency reported.

Russia called on the United States on Monday to free Russian pilot Konstantin Yaroshenko and proposed a prisoner swap with Washington to win the release of any American national held in Russia, Interfax news agency reported. The comments may fuel speculation that Moscow is seeking a prisoner exchange involving Paul Whelan, a former US Marine arrested and held in Russia on spying charges that he denies and that he has likened to a political kidnap. Yaroshenko is a pilot serving 20 years in the United States for conspiracy to smuggle cocaine into the country. He was arrested by US special forces in Liberia in 2010. "Free Yaroshenko, swap him for an American or Americans who are serving their sentence here," Russian deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov was quoted as saying by Interfax. In later comments on the proposal carried by RIA news agency, Ryabkov said it would not be right to discuss exchanging Whelan given that he had yet to face trial in Russia. He said he had other US nationals in mind as possible swaps. Whelan, who holds US, British, Canadian and Irish passports, was detained in a Moscow hotel room on December 28th. Appearing in court last month, he appealed to US President Donald Trump to intervene to help him, saying "we cannot keep America great unless we aggressively protect" US nationals wherever they are. Whelan said in May that he was being threatened in prison and subjected to humiliation. The US embassy in Moscow said on Monday it had asked the Russian government to allow an independent assessment of his condition, but that the request had been denied and that Whelan's condition had worsened. Ryabkov also urged the United States on Monday to return confiscated Russian diplomatic properties as a first step towards mending battered relations between the countries. Ryabkov spoke a few days after Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin met on the sidelines of a G20 summit in the Japanese city of Osaka.

Russia proposes prisoner swap with US: Report

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-says-fbi-arrested-russian-a-day-after-it-detained-ex-us-marine-188459">The Kremlin on Wednesday rejected</a> a British suggestion it might use a former<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-it-is-not-willing-to-exchange-detained-ex-us-marine-report-188431"> US Marine detained in Russia </a>on espionage charges as a pawn in a diplomatic game and said it reserved the right to conduct counter-intelligence activities.

Paul Whelan, a former US Marine who also holds a British passport, was detained by Russia's Federal Security Service on December 28. His family has said he is innocent and that he was in Moscow to attend a wedding.

Commenting on the case earlier this month, British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said individuals should not be used as pawns of diplomatic leverage.

Asked about Hunt's remark, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters:

"In Russia, we never use people as pawns in diplomatic games. In Russia, we conduct counter-intelligence activity against those suspected of espionage. That is done regularly."

The Kremlin on Wednesday rejected a British suggestion it might use a former US Marine detained in Russia on espionage charges as a pawn in a diplomatic game and said it reserved the right to conduct counter-intelligence activities.

The Kremlin on Wednesday rejected a British suggestion it might use a former US Marine detained in Russia on espionage charges as a pawn in a diplomatic game and said it reserved the right to conduct counter-intelligence activities. Paul Whelan, a former US Marine who also holds a British passport, was detained by Russia's Federal Security Service on December 28. His family has said he is innocent and that he was in Moscow to attend a wedding. Commenting on the case earlier this month, British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said individuals should not be used as pawns of diplomatic leverage. Asked about Hunt's remark, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters: "In Russia, we never use people as pawns in diplomatic games. In Russia, we conduct counter-intelligence activity against those suspected of espionage. That is done regularly."

Kremlin says it will not use detained ex-US marine Paul Whelan as pawn

The United States is demanding the immediate return of a retired US Marine detained by Russia on spying charges and wants an explanation on why he was arrested, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-pompeo-says-cooperation-with-israel-over-syria-and-iran-to-continue-187786">US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> said on Wednesday.

Speaking in Brasilia the day after<a href="http://13.232.42.114/world/2018-gave-brazil-a-far-right-president-jair-bolsonaro-185048"> Brazil's new president Jair Bolsonaro </a>was inaugurated, Pompeo said the US government hoped to gain consular access to Paul Whelan within the next few hours following his arrest in Moscow.

Pompeo&nbsp;also discussed Venezuela with Brazil's new right-wing government on Wednesday in the context of what he termed a joint-front against authoritarian regimes in Latin America.

Speaking to reporters after meeting with Brazil's new Foreign Minister Ernesto Araujo,&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;named Venezuela, Cuba and Nicaragua as countries that do not have shared democratic values.

"We have an opportunity to work alongside each other against authoritarian regimes," he said of U.S.-Brazil relations.

The United States is demanding the immediate return of Paul Whelan who was detained by Russia on spying charges and wants an explanation, said US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

The United States is demanding the immediate return of a retired US Marine detained by Russia on spying charges and wants an explanation on why he was arrested, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday. Speaking in Brasilia the day after Brazil's new president Jair Bolsonaro was inaugurated, Pompeo said the US government hoped to gain consular access to Paul Whelan within the next few hours following his arrest in Moscow. Pompeo also discussed Venezuela with Brazil's new right-wing government on Wednesday in the context of what he termed a joint-front against authoritarian regimes in Latin America. Speaking to reporters after meeting with Brazil's new Foreign Minister Ernesto Araujo, Pompeo named Venezuela, Cuba and Nicaragua as countries that do not have shared democratic values. "We have an opportunity to work alongside each other against authoritarian regimes," he said of U.S.-Brazil relations.

US demands immediate return of ex-Marine detained in Russia on spy charges: Mike Pompeo

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