In an effort to diffuse a divided political opposition over $6 billion in Iranian monies that were kept in a Qatari account following Hamas's attacks on Israel, top US officials pledged to prevent the money from being moved to Tehran without Washington's approval.

US tells Qatar to deny Iran access to funds

Five Americans detained in Iran arrive in Qatar, released in deal for frozen Iranian assets. US Secretary-General Antony Blinken holds an 'emotional conversation' with the freed hostages.

Iran prisoner swap: Americans freed from Iran land in Qatar

A Qatari jet carrying five American citizens who were detained in Iran has arrived in&nbsp;Doha as part of a prisoner exchange with same number of Iranians&nbsp; on Monday (September 18).&nbsp;

The American citizens who had been detained in Iran, some for nearly a decade, were freed after a controversial prisoner swap involving the unfreezing of at least $6 billion of Iranian money by US President Joe Biden’s administration.&nbsp;

As a part of the deal, Tehran and Washington had agreed to swap five prisoners each.&nbsp;

<h2>American citizens leave Tehran</h2>

A report by Reuters citing a source said that a Qatari plane took off from Tehran carrying the five American detainees and two of their relatives shortly after the US and Iran received confirmation that the funds, blocked in South Korea, had been transferred to accounts in Doha.

The rare deal brokered by Qatar between the two arch-enemies triggered an exchange sequence which was agreed upon after at least a reported eight rounds of talks over several months between Iran and the US as they&nbsp;continue&nbsp;to remain at odds over a number of issues. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The five Americans with dual nationality are in “good health,” and will fly to Doha and then to the US, said an Iranian official briefed on the process, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

<h2>About the detainees</h2>

The five American detainees include well-known conservationist Morad Tahbaz (67), an Iranian-American environmentalist who also holds British citizenship; Siamak Namazi (51), a businessman with dual US-Iranian citizenship; and an Iranian-American businessman, named Emad Sharghi (59).&nbsp;

However, The fourth and fifth prisoners were not identified as they wished to remain anonymous.

Ahead of their arrival, Biden had granted clemency to five Iranians jailed or awaiting trial for non-violent crimes, a US official told AFP.&nbsp;

<h2>Iranian detainees in US</h2>

The five Iranians held in the US are Mehrdad Moin-Ansari, Kambiz Attar-Kashani, Reza Sarhangpour-Kafrani, Amin Hassanzadeh and Kaveh Afrasiabi, according to officials in Tehran. Two of the five Iranians to be released in the exchange had landed in Doha, as per Iranian media reports.&nbsp;

“Mehrdad Moein Ansari and Reza Sarhangpour, who were released in the US-Iran prisoner exchange and were planning to travel to Iran, entered Doha,” reported Tasnim news agency.&nbsp;

Two Iranians released would stay in the US at their request and one detainee would join his family in a third country, said Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani.&nbsp;

The $6 billion frozen in South Korea &nbsp;had been generated by Iran&nbsp;through oil sales to Seoul. It was stuck&nbsp;after the US under former president Donald Trump reimposed sanctions as he withdrew from a landmark nuclear accord of 2015.&nbsp;

<h2>Biden sanctions former Iranian president: Report</h2>

A report by AFP citing a senior US official who spoke on condition of anonymity said Biden is also imposing new sanctions on Iran’s intelligence ministry and former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad over alleged deceit over the disappearance of Bob Levinson, a former FBI agent.&nbsp;

“The United States will never give up on Bob Levinson’s case. We call on the Iranian regime to give a full account of what happened to Bob Levinson,” the US official told AFP.&nbsp;

The former FBI agent disappeared in Iran under mysterious circumstances and is presumed dead. According to the report, Levinson had travelled to the Iranian island of Kish on a CIA mission and has not been heard from while Iran has not acknowledged his arrest.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
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A Qatari jet carrying five American citizens who were detained in Iran has arrived in Doha as part of a prisoner exchange with same number of Iranians on Monday (September 18).

A Qatari jet carrying five American citizens who were detained in Iran has arrived in Doha as part of a prisoner exchange with same number of Iranians on Monday (September 18). The American citizens who had been detained in Iran, some for nearly a decade, were freed after a controversial prisoner swap involving the unfreezing of at least $6 billion of Iranian money by US President Joe Biden’s administration. As a part of the deal, Tehran and Washington had agreed to swap five prisoners each. American citizens leave Tehran A report by Reuters citing a source said that a Qatari plane took off from Tehran carrying the five American detainees and two of their relatives shortly after the US and Iran received confirmation that the funds, blocked in South Korea, had been transferred to accounts in Doha. The rare deal brokered by Qatar between the two arch-enemies triggered an exchange sequence which was agreed upon after at least a reported eight rounds of talks over several months between Iran and the US as they continue to remain at odds over a number of issues. The five Americans with dual nationality are in “good health,” and will fly to Doha and then to the US, said an Iranian official briefed on the process, as per Reuters. About the detainees The five American detainees include well-known conservationist Morad Tahbaz (67), an Iranian-American environmentalist who also holds British citizenship; Siamak Namazi (51), a businessman with dual US-Iranian citizenship; and an Iranian-American businessman, named Emad Sharghi (59). However, The fourth and fifth prisoners were not identified as they wished to remain anonymous. Ahead of their arrival, Biden had granted clemency to five Iranians jailed or awaiting trial for non-violent crimes, a US official told AFP. Iranian detainees in US The five Iranians held in the US are Mehrdad Moin-Ansari, Kambiz Attar-Kashani, Reza Sarhangpour-Kafrani, Amin Hassanzadeh and Kaveh Afrasiabi, according to officials in Tehran. Two of the five Iranians to be released in the exchange had landed in Doha, as per Iranian media reports. “Mehrdad Moein Ansari and Reza Sarhangpour, who were released in the US-Iran prisoner exchange and were planning to travel to Iran, entered Doha,” reported Tasnim news agency. Two Iranians released would stay in the US at their request and one detainee would join his family in a third country, said Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani. The $6 billion frozen in South Korea had been generated by Iran through oil sales to Seoul. It was stuck after the US under former president Donald Trump reimposed sanctions as he withdrew from a landmark nuclear accord of 2015. Biden sanctions former Iranian president: Report A report by AFP citing a senior US official who spoke on condition of anonymity said Biden is also imposing new sanctions on Iran’s intelligence ministry and former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad over alleged deceit over the disappearance of Bob Levinson, a former FBI agent. “The United States will never give up on Bob Levinson’s case. We call on the Iranian regime to give a full account of what happened to Bob Levinson,” the US official told AFP. The former FBI agent disappeared in Iran under mysterious circumstances and is presumed dead. According to the report, Levinson had travelled to the Iranian island of Kish on a CIA mission and has not been heard from while Iran has not acknowledged his arrest. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

US and Iran swap prisoners after Qatar-brokered deal unfreezes $6 billion of Iranian oil money

According to officials, an important component of the planned swap, $6 billion that had been blocked in South Korea, reached Qatar on Monday and will be used to exchange prisoners between Iran and the United States. The planned discussion will take place immediately before Ebrahim Raisi, the hardline president of Iran, speaks at the UN General Assembly in New York. The transfer won't, however, mean that tensions between the United States and Iran have decreased because Iran is now enriching uranium more closely than ever to levels suitable for use in weapons.

US-Iran Prisoner Swap: US and Iran to complete $6 billion prisoner swap deal

The US will release $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds and has indicated that it would release five Iranian prisoners from American jails. The development came on September 11 when the Biden administration formally notified Congress on the matter, in what was seen as a major sign of plummeting tensions between Washington and Tehran.

Earlier, Tehran moved five US citizens from the country's Evin prison to house arrest. This exact step in particular has been interpreted in the Western media as the beginning of an arrangement that Washington expects to eventually configure into formal talks towards Iran's nuclear programme.

<h2>US-Iran prisoner swap: How will it occur?</h2>

These five Americans in Iran may return to the US this month, contingent upon Washington's release of $6 billion in frozen Iranian oil revenue from South Korea, the Financial Times reported.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-talk-with-mutual-understanding-to-cool-tensions-605322">US, Iran talk with mutual 'understanding' to cool tensions</a>

The announcement on Monday officially confirmed that the deal includes the release of five Iranian prisoners. The identities of these prisoners have not been disclosed as yet.&nbsp;

<h2>US-Iran ties: How is&nbsp;US justifying the latest developments?</h2>

A US State Department official stated, "The US has agreed to permit the transfer of funds from South Korea to restricted accounts in financial institutions in Qatar and the release of five Iranian nationals currently detained in the United States to facilitate the release of five US citizens detained in Iran."

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken signed a waiver last week enabling the transfer of funds from South Korea, with a caution that the funds should be used solely for humanitarian purposes.

Also watch |&nbsp;Iran-US prisoner swap: Prisoner from both sides to transit through Qatar

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US National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said that this step is part of an effort to secure the release of five unjustly held Americans, and the process remains sensitive and ongoing.

Since former US President Trump's withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018, Iran has been unable to access a substantial portion of its oil funds held by foreign central banks.

But the efforts to address Iran's nuclear programme have gained momentum in recent months.

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The US will release $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds and has indicated that it would release five Iranian prisoners from American jails. The development came on September 11 when the Biden administration formally notified Congress on the matter, in what was seen as a major sign of plummeting tensions between Washington and Tehran.

The US will release $6 billion in frozen Iranian funds and has indicated that it would release five Iranian prisoners from American jails. The development came on September 11 when the Biden administration formally notified Congress on the matter, in what was seen as a major sign of plummeting tensions between Washington and Tehran. Earlier, Tehran moved five US citizens from the country's Evin prison to house arrest. This exact step in particular has been interpreted in the Western media as the beginning of an arrangement that Washington expects to eventually configure into formal talks towards Iran's nuclear programme. US-Iran prisoner swap: How will it occur? These five Americans in Iran may return to the US this month, contingent upon Washington's release of $6 billion in frozen Iranian oil revenue from South Korea, the Financial Times reported. Also read | US, Iran talk with mutual 'understanding' to cool tensions The announcement on Monday officially confirmed that the deal includes the release of five Iranian prisoners. The identities of these prisoners have not been disclosed as yet. US-Iran ties: How is US justifying the latest developments? A US State Department official stated, "The US has agreed to permit the transfer of funds from South Korea to restricted accounts in financial institutions in Qatar and the release of five Iranian nationals currently detained in the United States to facilitate the release of five US citizens detained in Iran." US Secretary of State Antony Blinken signed a waiver last week enabling the transfer of funds from South Korea, with a caution that the funds should be used solely for humanitarian purposes. Also watch | Iran-US prisoner swap: Prisoner from both sides to transit through Qatar × US National Security Council spokeswoman Adrienne Watson said that this step is part of an effort to secure the release of five unjustly held Americans, and the process remains sensitive and ongoing. Since former US President Trump's withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear deal in 2018, Iran has been unable to access a substantial portion of its oil funds held by foreign central banks. But the efforts to address Iran's nuclear programme have gained momentum in recent months. 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.

US-Iran tensions calming down? Tehran to get back frozen assets worth billions after prisoner swap

After months of negotiations Iran and the US are finally set for a prisoner swap. The swap of five prisoners from each side will take place under the Qatar and Oman mediated deal. The Iranian Foreign Ministry has also confirmed the unfreezing of the Assets in South Korea with six billion dollars.

US-Iran Prisoner Swap: US to maintain oversight of funds released under the deal

Iran, US agreed to release five prisoners each under a deal

Moscow seeks the return of Vadim Krasikov, a Russian hitman jailed in Germany for the assassination of a Chechen dissident. The Russian government wishes to return him as part of a prisoner swap.

Moscow seeks the return of Vadim Krasikov, a Russian hitman jailed in Germany for the assassination of a Chechen dissident. The Russian government wishes to return him as part of a prisoner swap. The Krelim raised Vadim Krasikov's name in the recent negotiations with the Western officials. In exchange, they have offered the release of prisoners, including Evan Gershkovich, a 31-year-old Wall Street Journal reporter accused of espionage and ex-US marine Paul Whelan, convicted of spying charges in 2020. He appeared on a Russian news channel a week ago. The former US Marine is serving a 16-year sentence in a penal colony in the Russian region of Mordovia. The Biden administration claimed both men were innocent and their detention was politically motivated. The 58-year-old Russian assassin, Vadim Krasikov, received life imprisonment in December 2021 for the "state-ordered" assassination of Zelimkhan Khangoshvili, a Georgian national of Chechen heritage, in 2019. Krasikov shot him dead in a children's playground in Germany's Kleiner Tiergarten park. ALSO READ | India-Europe-Middle East Economic Corridor to change the face of the Middle East: Israel PM Khangoshvili allegedly led a 2004 raid by Chechens in which many security officials died. In 2012, Russia included his name in the 19 most wanted terrorists list, which it sent to other countries, including Germany. In 2016, Khangoshvili fled to Germany from Georgia. Although Germany rejected his "protection from arrest" appeal, he could still stay in the country. Krasikov travelled to Germany on a false passport in the name of Vadim Sokolov, as per the Telegraph. After the assassination, the authorities caught him trying to escape on an electric scooter after tossing a bike and gun in the River Spree and changing his disguise. Police convicted him as they found his fingerprints and DNA on the dumped objects. Krasikov insisted he was an innocent Russian tourist with no relation to Krelim. However, German prosecutors, aided by Kyiv authorities and investigative website Bellingcat, proved he was a veteran agent working for the secretive Vympel department of the Russian security service FSB. But Moscow condemned the trial, insisting that he was an innocent citizen and his arrest was politically motivated. Germany expelled two Russian diplomats soon after Krasikov's conviction. According to the Wall Street Journal, Russian President Vladimir Putin sought Krasikov's release briefly after his conviction. He asked his top security advisor, Nikolai Patrushev, to conduct the negotiations. Putin also seeks the release of other Russian agents. However, Krasikov remains his top priority. US President Joe Biden also confirmed his interest in a prisoner swap in July. But Germany's unwillingness to release Krasikov, who was convicted of murder on its land, might be an obstacle to Russia's plan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Vadim Krasikov? Assassin Russia wants in prisoner swap for US WSJ journalist

Iran-US prisoner swap: Prisoner from both sides to transit through Qatar

The US Has allowed South Korea to unfreeze 6 billion dollars in Iranian funds. The white house says its prisoner swap with Tehran is going as planned. The US and Iran seem to be trying something new. Is this an emerging dynamic? Ghadi Francis explains.

US changing its IRAN strategy? US-Iran prisoner swap on track

Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian told the country's state television on Sunday (March 12) that Iran and the United States have reached an agreement for a prisoner swap. He expressed hope that the prisoner exchange would take place soon.

"Regarding the issue of prisoner swaps between Iran and the US, we have reached an agreement in the recent days and if everything goes well on the US side, I think we will witness a prisoner exchange in a short period," Amirabdollahian said.

"On our part everything is ready, while the US is currently working on the final technical coordination."&nbsp;

A White House official denied Amirabdollahian's statement about the prisoner swap with Washington, adding that the United States was committed to securing the release of Americans held in Iran.

"Claims by Iranian officials that we have reached a deal for the release of the U.S. citizens wrongfully held by Iran are false," a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council said. &nbsp;

One of several Americans held in Iran is Siamak Namazi, a businessman with dual US-Iranian citizenship, who was sentenced in 2016 to 10 years in prison for spying and cooperating with the US&nbsp;government.

Emad Sharghi, an Iranian-American businessman was first arrested in 2018 when he was working for a tech investment company, is also jailed in Iran, as is Iranian-American environmentalist Morad Tahbaz, who also holds British citizenship.

Iranian sources told Reuters that two regional countries were involved in the series of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington for the release of prisoners.

For years, Tehran has sought the release of more than a dozen Iranians in the United States, including seven Iranian-American dual nationals, two Iranians with permanent U.S. residency and four Iranian citizens with no legal status in the United States.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian told the country's state television on Sunday (March 12) that Iran and the United States have reached an agreement for a prisoner swap.

Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian told the country's state television on Sunday (March 12) that Iran and the United States have reached an agreement for a prisoner swap. He expressed hope that the prisoner exchange would take place soon. "Regarding the issue of prisoner swaps between Iran and the US, we have reached an agreement in the recent days and if everything goes well on the US side, I think we will witness a prisoner exchange in a short period," Amirabdollahian said. "On our part everything is ready, while the US is currently working on the final technical coordination." A White House official denied Amirabdollahian's statement about the prisoner swap with Washington, adding that the United States was committed to securing the release of Americans held in Iran. "Claims by Iranian officials that we have reached a deal for the release of the U.S. citizens wrongfully held by Iran are false," a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council said. One of several Americans held in Iran is Siamak Namazi, a businessman with dual US-Iranian citizenship, who was sentenced in 2016 to 10 years in prison for spying and cooperating with the US government. Emad Sharghi, an Iranian-American businessman was first arrested in 2018 when he was working for a tech investment company, is also jailed in Iran, as is Iranian-American environmentalist Morad Tahbaz, who also holds British citizenship. Iranian sources told Reuters that two regional countries were involved in the series of indirect talks between Tehran and Washington for the release of prisoners. For years, Tehran has sought the release of more than a dozen Iranians in the United States, including seven Iranian-American dual nationals, two Iranians with permanent U.S. residency and four Iranian citizens with no legal status in the United States. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Iran says prisoner swap deal struck with US, Washington denies

The war in Ukraine is approaching its first anniversary. So far, the cycle of death, destruction and dislocation has failed to stop. Peace talks have been ruled out. But both sides have regularly freed prisoners in swap. In a fresh swap, Russia and Ukraine traded almost 200 prisoners of war. Moscow says 63 Russian troops have returned from Ukraine following the swap. Russia added the swap includes some 'special category' prisoners. The release of special category prisoners was secured following mediation by the UAE. Zelensky's aide said 116 Ukrainians have returned. As per the international committee of the red cross, prisoners of war must be released and repatriated at the end of active hostilities. But some factors like health, parole policies and special agreements among states can lead to earlier release. It is unclear if Russia and Ukraine arrived at some agreement, leading to the latest swap.

Russia & Ukraine exchange prisoners of war | World News | WION

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 
 
The Ukrainian body dealing with prisoners has alleged that the Russian side cancelled a scheduled prisoner exchange between the two warring nations at the last moment on Saturday.&nbsp;Taking to Telegram, the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War said, “Another round of exchange of prisoners was planned today with the Russian side,” adding that the exchange “was cancelled at the last moment at the initiative of the Russian side.”

Watch |&nbsp;War in Ukraine: Russia launches fresh attack on Ukrainian cities, claims victory in Soledar

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Reuters reportedly tried to reach the office of Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova, however, Moscow did not comment on Ukraine’s claim.

Previously, the two nations have conducted multiple prisoner swaps, exchanging hundreds of Prisoners of War&nbsp;(PoW) captured during this conflict, which has already dragged on into its 11th month.&nbsp;The most recent one as per Reuters was on January 8.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-missiles-hit-ukrainian-capital-more-attacks-expected-elsewhere-552596">Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 5 killed, 27 injured</a>

On Saturday, Russian Human Rights Commissioner Moskalkova stated on the messaging app Telegram that Russian soldiers had reported instances of abuse at the hands of the Ukrainian side while in their custody. However, the claims are yet to be verified.

Ukraine, too, had during a recent meeting between the two sides voiced concerns over alleged Russian violations of the Geneva Convention in its treatment of Ukrainian POWs.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-soledar-city-controlled-by-kyiv-fight-ongoing-says-report-552635">Ukraine war: Soledar city 'controlled' by Kyiv, fighting ongoing, says report</a>

On Wednesday, talking to the press, Mirjana Spoljaric, the new head of the International Committee of the Red Cross, said she had been “speaking with Russian counterparts”. This comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has continuously criticised the organisation in recent months for not pushing hard enough to gain access to Ukrainian troops captured by Russian forces.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately report this developing news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. The Ukrainian body dealing with prisoners has alleged that the Russian side cancelled a scheduled prisoner exchange between the two warring nations at the last moment on Saturday. Taking to Telegram, the Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War said, “Another round of exchange of prisoners was planned today with the Russian side,” adding that the exchange “was cancelled at the last moment at the initiative of the Russian side.” Watch | War in Ukraine: Russia launches fresh attack on Ukrainian cities, claims victory in Soledar Reuters reportedly tried to reach the office of Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova, however, Moscow did not comment on Ukraine’s claim. Previously, the two nations have conducted multiple prisoner swaps, exchanging hundreds of Prisoners of War (PoW) captured during this conflict, which has already dragged on into its 11th month. The most recent one as per Reuters was on January 8. Also read | Russian missiles strike several Ukrainian cities, 5 killed, 27 injured On Saturday, Russian Human Rights Commissioner Moskalkova stated on the messaging app Telegram that Russian soldiers had reported instances of abuse at the hands of the Ukrainian side while in their custody. However, the claims are yet to be verified. Ukraine, too, had during a recent meeting between the two sides voiced concerns over alleged Russian violations of the Geneva Convention in its treatment of Ukrainian POWs. Also read | Ukraine war: Soledar city 'controlled' by Kyiv, fighting ongoing, says report On Wednesday, talking to the press, Mirjana Spoljaric, the new head of the International Committee of the Red Cross, said she had been “speaking with Russian counterparts”. This comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has continuously criticised the organisation in recent months for not pushing hard enough to gain access to Ukrainian troops captured by Russian forces. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Ukraine alleges Russia cancelled scheduled prisoner exchange at the last minute

Ukraine presidency’s chief of staff Andriy Yermak said on Wednesday that the government was able to secure the release of 64 members of their military in the latest prisoner swap with Russia. Reuters also reported that the people who were involved in the swap also included a United States citizen.

"Sixty-four soldiers of the Ukrainian Armed Forces who fought in Donetsk and Lugansk -- in particular participated in the defence of the city of Bakhmut -- are going home," Yermak said on social media.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-slams-chinas-lac-intrusion-attempt-lauds-indias-de-escalation-efforts-542868">US slams China's LAC intrusion attempt, lauds India's de-escalation efforts</a>

"It was also possible to free a US citizen who helped our people -- Suedi Murekezi," he added.

Murekezi was arrested by the Russian forces in the Donetsk region in June and the authorities charged him with attending anti-Russian protests and “ethnic hatred”. Russia's state-run TASS news agency also said that he was born in Rwanda before moving to the US with his family in 1994.

This was the first prisoner swap since US basketball star Brittney Griner was allowed to return home from the Russian prison. In exchange, Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout returned to his country.

WATCH |&nbsp;Ukraine shot down 13 kamikaze drones in Kyiv attack: Zelensky

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In the aftermath of the high-profile exchange, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that he was open to more prisoner exchanges if both Russia and US can reach proper understandings.

The Donetsk region has turned into the latest conflict zone between the two forces after Ukraine was able to regain control of major parts of Kherson. The resistance forces have recently destroyed a key bridge in the region and there were reports of Russian missile strikes on the banks of Dnipro River.

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Ukraine presidency’s chief of staff Andriy Yermak said on Wednesday that the government was able to secure the release of 64 members of their military in the latest prisoner swap with Russia.

Ukraine presidency’s chief of staff Andriy Yermak said on Wednesday that the government was able to secure the release of 64 members of their military in the latest prisoner swap with Russia. Reuters also reported that the people who were involved in the swap also included a United States citizen. "Sixty-four soldiers of the Ukrainian Armed Forces who fought in Donetsk and Lugansk -- in particular participated in the defence of the city of Bakhmut -- are going home," Yermak said on social media. Also read | US slams China's LAC intrusion attempt, lauds India's de-escalation efforts "It was also possible to free a US citizen who helped our people -- Suedi Murekezi," he added. Murekezi was arrested by the Russian forces in the Donetsk region in June and the authorities charged him with attending anti-Russian protests and “ethnic hatred”. Russia's state-run TASS news agency also said that he was born in Rwanda before moving to the US with his family in 1994. This was the first prisoner swap since US basketball star Brittney Griner was allowed to return home from the Russian prison. In exchange, Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout returned to his country. WATCH | Ukraine shot down 13 kamikaze drones in Kyiv attack: Zelensky In the aftermath of the high-profile exchange, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that he was open to more prisoner exchanges if both Russia and US can reach proper understandings. The Donetsk region has turned into the latest conflict zone between the two forces after Ukraine was able to regain control of major parts of Kherson. The resistance forces have recently destroyed a key bridge in the region and there were reports of Russian missile strikes on the banks of Dnipro River.

Ukraine secures release of 64 soldiers and civilians in prisoner swap with Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin said that his government is in favour of more prisoner swaps with the United States. The comments were made in the aftermath of a high-profile prisoner exchange between the two countries featuring American basketball star Brittney Griner and Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout.

More prisoner swaps 'possible' with United States, says Russian President Vladimir Putin

American NBA star and two time Olympic-champion Brittney Griner is released from a Russian prison and has been welcomed by her fellow athletes and also the sporting community. However, many still wait behind bars. Watch this report

The debate over prisoner swap: Griner freed, many wait behind bars

American basketball star Brittney Griner returned to the United States after being released by Russia as part of a prisoner swap. The 32-year-old, who was arrested by the Russian authorities in Moscow for possession of cannabis oil, was released in exchange for the 55-year-old Russian arms dealer called Viktor Bout. Bout was sentenced to 25 years in prison by the US authorities.

AFP reported the Griner was spotted on the runway after her flight landed in San Antonio, Texas. It also claimed that WNBA star will undergo medical checks at a military facility in Texas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-lawmakers-hail-bout-griner-prisoner-swap-as-putins-win-state-media-541528">Russian lawmakers hail Bout-Griner swap as Putin’s ‘win’, capitulation by US</a>

The prisoner exchange between the two authorities took place in Abu Dhabi with footage released by the Russian state media showing the basketball star without her dreadlocks. Bout and Griner crossed each other on the airport tarmac and were taken to their respective flights.

US President Joe Biden earlier said that she was in "good spirits" after suffering "needless trauma."

Biden met with Griner’s wife – Cherelle Griner – when the prison exchange was announced.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-fire-reported-in-a-suburban-shopping-centre-in-moscow-541468">One dead in massive shopping centre fire in Moscow, arson suspected</a>

"I'm just standing here, overwhelmed with emotions," Cherelle Griner said. "Today my family is whole, but as you all are aware there's so many other families who are not whole."

While the news of Griner’s release was greeted with celebrations, several people expressed disappointment at former US Marine Paul Whelan not being part of the deal.

Whelan was detained by the Russian authorities on accusations of espionage.

"I don't understand why I'm still sitting here," Whelan told CNN in a phone call.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

American basketball star Brittney Griner returned to the United States after being released by Russia as part of a prisoner swap. The 32-year-old, who was arrested by the Russian authorities in Moscow for possession of cannabis oil, was released in exchange for the 55-year-old Russian arms dealer called Viktor Bout.

American basketball star Brittney Griner returned to the United States after being released by Russia as part of a prisoner swap. The 32-year-old, who was arrested by the Russian authorities in Moscow for possession of cannabis oil, was released in exchange for the 55-year-old Russian arms dealer called Viktor Bout. Bout was sentenced to 25 years in prison by the US authorities. AFP reported the Griner was spotted on the runway after her flight landed in San Antonio, Texas. It also claimed that WNBA star will undergo medical checks at a military facility in Texas. Also read | Russian lawmakers hail Bout-Griner swap as Putin’s ‘win’, capitulation by US The prisoner exchange between the two authorities took place in Abu Dhabi with footage released by the Russian state media showing the basketball star without her dreadlocks. Bout and Griner crossed each other on the airport tarmac and were taken to their respective flights. US President Joe Biden earlier said that she was in "good spirits" after suffering "needless trauma." Biden met with Griner’s wife – Cherelle Griner – when the prison exchange was announced. Also read | One dead in massive shopping centre fire in Moscow, arson suspected "I'm just standing here, overwhelmed with emotions," Cherelle Griner said. "Today my family is whole, but as you all are aware there's so many other families who are not whole." While the news of Griner’s release was greeted with celebrations, several people expressed disappointment at former US Marine Paul Whelan not being part of the deal. Whelan was detained by the Russian authorities on accusations of espionage. "I don't understand why I'm still sitting here," Whelan told CNN in a phone call.

Basketball star Brittney Griner arrives home in US after Russia prisoner swap

Representatives from Russia and Ukraine met in the United Arab Emirates last week to discuss the possibility of a prisoner-of-war swap that would be linked to a resumption of Russian ammonia exports, which&nbsp;go to Asia and Africa, via a Ukrainian pipeline, three sources with knowledge of the meeting said.&nbsp;

The sources said the talks were being mediated by the Gulf Arab state and did not include the United Nations despite the U.N.'s central role in negotiating the ongoing initiative to export agricultural products from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports. Ammonia is used to make fertilizer.&nbsp;

However, the talks aim to remove remaining obstacles in the initiative extended last week and ease global food shortages by unblocking Ukrainian and Russian exports, they added.&nbsp;

The sources asked not to be named in order to freely discuss sensitive matters.&nbsp;

The Russian and Ukrainian representatives travelled to the UAE capital Abu Dhabi on Nov. 17 where they discussed allowing Russia to resume ammonia exports in exchange for a prisoner swap that would release a large number of Ukrainian and Russian prisoners, the sources said.&nbsp;

Reuters could not immediately establish what progress was made at the talks.&nbsp;

The Ukrainian ambassador to Turkey, Vasyl Bodnar, told Reuters that "releasing our prisoners of war is part of negotiations over opening Russian ammonia exports", adding "Of course we look for ways to do that at any opportunity". Bodnar said he was unaware if a meeting took place in the UAE.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysian-opposition-leader-anwar-ibrahim-appointed-prime-minister-536981">Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim named prime minister</a>

Putin said on Wednesday that Russian officials would work to unblock Russian fertilisers stuck in European ports and to resume ammonia exports.&nbsp;

The UAE's foreign ministry did not respond to Reuters' request for comment.&nbsp;

Lana Nusseibeh, UAE's Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, said Abu Dhabi remains firmly committed to help keep channels of communication open, encourage dialogue and support diplomacy to end the war in Ukraine.&nbsp;

"In times of conflict, our collective responsibility is to leave no stone unturned towards identifying and pursuing paths that bring about a peaceful and swift resolution of crises," Nusseibeh said in a statement carried by state news agency WAM.&nbsp;

Russia and Ukraine's defence and foreign ministries did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment.&nbsp;

Asked if the United Nations were involved in the talks, a spokesperson for the organisation declined to comment.&nbsp;

WESTERN PRESSURE&nbsp;

The export of Russian ammonia would be via an existing pipeline to the Black Sea.&nbsp;

The pipeline was designed to pump up to 2.5 million tonnes of ammonia gas per year from Russia's Volga region to Ukraine's Black Sea port of Pivdennyi, known as Yuzhny in Russian, near Odesa for onward shipment to international buyers. It was shut down after Russia sent its troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24.&nbsp;

The export of ammonia was not part of the renewal of the U.N.-backed grains corridor deal that restored commercial shipping from Ukraine.&nbsp;

Last week, Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of U.N. agency UNCTAD, who leads the negotiations on fertiliser, said she was optimistic Russia and Ukraine could agree to the terms for the export of Russian ammonia via the pipeline, without giving details.&nbsp;

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has publicly set several conditions before allowing Russia to resume its ammonia exports via the pipeline, including a prisoner swap and reopening of Mykolaiv port in the Black Sea.&nbsp;

Neither Russia nor Ukraine have released official figures on how many prisoners of war they have taken since Russia invaded in February. On Oct. 29, Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskiy said that since March, Russia had freed a total of 1,031 prisoners.&nbsp;

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Russia and Ukraine have disclosed few details about direct meetings between representatives from the two countries following the abandonment of ceasefire talks in the first few weeks following Moscow’s invasion on February 24.&nbsp;

Abu Dhabi's efforts follow in the footsteps of Saudi Arabia, which scored&nbsp;a diplomatic win&nbsp;by securing freedom for foreign fighters captured in Ukraine in September.&nbsp;

The UAE, like Saudi Arabia, is a member of the OPEC+ oil alliance that includes Russia and has also maintained good ties with Moscow despite Western pressure to help isolate Russia over the invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls its "special military operation".&nbsp;

UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan visited Moscow last month where he discussed with President Vladimir Putin the possibility of Abu Dhabi mediating for an ammonia deal, two of the sources said.&nbsp;

Ukraine is a major producer of grains and oilseeds. Russia is the world's largest wheat exporter and a major supplier of fertilisers to global markets.&nbsp;

Since July, Moscow has repeatedly said its shipments of grain and fertilisers, though not directly targeted by sanctions, are constrained because sanctions make it harder for exporters to process payments or to obtain vessels and insurance.&nbsp;

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Representatives from Russia and Ukraine met in the United Arab Emirates last week to discuss the possibility of a prisoner-of-war swap that would be linked to a resumption of Russian ammonia exports, which go to Asia and Africa, via a Ukrainian pipeline, three sources with knowledge of the meeting said.

Representatives from Russia and Ukraine met in the United Arab Emirates last week to discuss the possibility of a prisoner-of-war swap that would be linked to a resumption of Russian ammonia exports, which go to Asia and Africa, via a Ukrainian pipeline, three sources with knowledge of the meeting said. The sources said the talks were being mediated by the Gulf Arab state and did not include the United Nations despite the U.N.'s central role in negotiating the ongoing initiative to export agricultural products from three Ukrainian Black Sea ports. Ammonia is used to make fertilizer. However, the talks aim to remove remaining obstacles in the initiative extended last week and ease global food shortages by unblocking Ukrainian and Russian exports, they added. The sources asked not to be named in order to freely discuss sensitive matters. The Russian and Ukrainian representatives travelled to the UAE capital Abu Dhabi on Nov. 17 where they discussed allowing Russia to resume ammonia exports in exchange for a prisoner swap that would release a large number of Ukrainian and Russian prisoners, the sources said. Reuters could not immediately establish what progress was made at the talks. The Ukrainian ambassador to Turkey, Vasyl Bodnar, told Reuters that "releasing our prisoners of war is part of negotiations over opening Russian ammonia exports", adding "Of course we look for ways to do that at any opportunity". Bodnar said he was unaware if a meeting took place in the UAE. Also read | Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim named prime minister Putin said on Wednesday that Russian officials would work to unblock Russian fertilisers stuck in European ports and to resume ammonia exports. The UAE's foreign ministry did not respond to Reuters' request for comment. Lana Nusseibeh, UAE's Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, said Abu Dhabi remains firmly committed to help keep channels of communication open, encourage dialogue and support diplomacy to end the war in Ukraine. "In times of conflict, our collective responsibility is to leave no stone unturned towards identifying and pursuing paths that bring about a peaceful and swift resolution of crises," Nusseibeh said in a statement carried by state news agency WAM. Russia and Ukraine's defence and foreign ministries did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment. Asked if the United Nations were involved in the talks, a spokesperson for the organisation declined to comment. WESTERN PRESSURE The export of Russian ammonia would be via an existing pipeline to the Black Sea. The pipeline was designed to pump up to 2.5 million tonnes of ammonia gas per year from Russia's Volga region to Ukraine's Black Sea port of Pivdennyi, known as Yuzhny in Russian, near Odesa for onward shipment to international buyers. It was shut down after Russia sent its troops into Ukraine on Feb. 24. The export of ammonia was not part of the renewal of the U.N.-backed grains corridor deal that restored commercial shipping from Ukraine. Last week, Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of U.N. agency UNCTAD, who leads the negotiations on fertiliser, said she was optimistic Russia and Ukraine could agree to the terms for the export of Russian ammonia via the pipeline, without giving details. Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has publicly set several conditions before allowing Russia to resume its ammonia exports via the pipeline, including a prisoner swap and reopening of Mykolaiv port in the Black Sea. Neither Russia nor Ukraine have released official figures on how many prisoners of war they have taken since Russia invaded in February. On Oct. 29, Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelenskiy said that since March, Russia had freed a total of 1,031 prisoners. Also read | China locks down Zhengzhou after iPhone plant protest, Foxconn apologises over hiring Russia and Ukraine have disclosed few details about direct meetings between representatives from the two countries following the abandonment of ceasefire talks in the first few weeks following Moscow’s invasion on February 24. Abu Dhabi's efforts follow in the footsteps of Saudi Arabia, which scored a diplomatic win by securing freedom for foreign fighters captured in Ukraine in September. The UAE, like Saudi Arabia, is a member of the OPEC+ oil alliance that includes Russia and has also maintained good ties with Moscow despite Western pressure to help isolate Russia over the invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls its "special military operation". UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan visited Moscow last month where he discussed with President Vladimir Putin the possibility of Abu Dhabi mediating for an ammonia deal, two of the sources said. Ukraine is a major producer of grains and oilseeds. Russia is the world's largest wheat exporter and a major supplier of fertilisers to global markets. Since July, Moscow has repeatedly said its shipments of grain and fertilisers, though not directly targeted by sanctions, are constrained because sanctions make it harder for exporters to process payments or to obtain vessels and insurance.

Russia, Ukraine met in UAE to discuss prisoner swap and ammonia: Report

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday he expected Russian President Vladimir Putin will be willing to talk more seriously with Washington about a potential prisoner swap to secure the release of U.S. basketball star Brittney&nbsp;Griner.

"My hope is, now that the election is over, that Mr. Putin will be able to discuss with us and be willing to talk more seriously about prisoner exchange," Biden told reporters at a press conference. "My intention is to get her home," he added.

Biden's Democratic Party performed better than expected in the Nov. 8 midterms, with the Republicans appearing to fall short of the sweeping "red wave" victory they had sought. The Biden administration in late July proposed a prisoner swap with Russia to secure&nbsp;Griner's release, as well as that of former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan who is also jailed there, but said Moscow had yet to respond positively.

Griner, 32, a star of the Women's National Basketball Association's Phoenix Mercury, was arrested on Feb. 17. Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent souring of ties between Washington and Moscow have complicated the talks.

The two-time Olympic gold medallist was arrested at a Moscow airport when vape cartridges containing cannabis oil, which is banned in Russia, were found in her luggage. She was sentenced on Aug. 4 to nine years in a penal colony on charges of possessing and smuggling drugs. She had pleaded guilty, but said she had made an "honest mistake" and had not meant to break the law.

Last week, Russian authorities transferred&nbsp;Griner&nbsp;from a detention center outside Moscow and she is now on her way to an undisclosed penal colony, her legal team said on Wednesday. The move drew anger from the Biden administration.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a statement said&nbsp;Griner&nbsp;was being transferred to a "remote penal colony" and that the United States expects Russian authorities to provide its embassy officials with access to&nbsp;Griner&nbsp;and other Americans detained in Russia.

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"NEVER-ENDING NIGHTMARE"

The WNBA, in a statement, said it was "crushed" by the move, calling it a "scary, seemingly never-ending nightmare," adding "the lack of clarity and transparency in the process compounds the pain." Neither her current location nor her final destination are known, her legal team said and added that in line with Russian procedures, her attorneys and the U.S. Embassy should be notified upon her arrival, but that it would take up to two weeks for that to happen.

Russia did not notify the United States that&nbsp;Griner&nbsp;was being moved, according to a senior State Department official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Reuters has requested comment from Russia's federal prison service on where&nbsp;Griner&nbsp;is being taken and where she is now. Transfers to penal colonies can be time-consuming as groups of prisoners are assembled and moved to different locations across the world's largest country.

Russia has refused to comment on the state of negotiations, saying such diplomacy should not be conducted in public. "Despite a lack of good-faith negotiation by the Russians, the U.S. government has continued to follow up on that offer and propose alternative potential ways forward with the Russians through all available channels," White House spokeswoman Karinne Jean-Pierre said.

Discussions over the proposed swap have "not been a static process," the senior State Department official added. Griner's lawyers have not yet said if they will attempt a further appeal against her conviction after a Russian court rejected an attempted appeal on Oct. 25.

Inmates in Russian penal colonies face a harsh regime of tedious manual work, poor hygiene and lack of adequate access to medical care. "Our primary concern continues to be BG's health and well-being,"&nbsp;Griner's agent, Lindsay Colas, said in a separate statement, referring to the player by her initials. "As we work through this very difficult phase of not knowing exactly where BG is or how she is doing, we ask for the public's support in continuing to write letters and express their love and care for her," Colas said.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday he expected Russian President Vladimir Putin will be willing to talk more seriously with Washington about a potential prisoner swap to secure the release of U.

U.S. President Joe Biden said on Wednesday he expected Russian President Vladimir Putin will be willing to talk more seriously with Washington about a potential prisoner swap to secure the release of U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner. "My hope is, now that the election is over, that Mr. Putin will be able to discuss with us and be willing to talk more seriously about prisoner exchange," Biden told reporters at a press conference. "My intention is to get her home," he added. Biden's Democratic Party performed better than expected in the Nov. 8 midterms, with the Republicans appearing to fall short of the sweeping "red wave" victory they had sought. The Biden administration in late July proposed a prisoner swap with Russia to secure Griner's release, as well as that of former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan who is also jailed there, but said Moscow had yet to respond positively. Griner, 32, a star of the Women's National Basketball Association's Phoenix Mercury, was arrested on Feb. 17. Russia's Feb. 24 invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent souring of ties between Washington and Moscow have complicated the talks. The two-time Olympic gold medallist was arrested at a Moscow airport when vape cartridges containing cannabis oil, which is banned in Russia, were found in her luggage. She was sentenced on Aug. 4 to nine years in a penal colony on charges of possessing and smuggling drugs. She had pleaded guilty, but said she had made an "honest mistake" and had not meant to break the law. Last week, Russian authorities transferred Griner from a detention center outside Moscow and she is now on her way to an undisclosed penal colony, her legal team said on Wednesday. The move drew anger from the Biden administration. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a statement said Griner was being transferred to a "remote penal colony" and that the United States expects Russian authorities to provide its embassy officials with access to Griner and other Americans detained in Russia. ALSO READ | Basketball star Brittney Griner on her way to penal colony in Russia, reveal lawyers "NEVER-ENDING NIGHTMARE" The WNBA, in a statement, said it was "crushed" by the move, calling it a "scary, seemingly never-ending nightmare," adding "the lack of clarity and transparency in the process compounds the pain." Neither her current location nor her final destination are known, her legal team said and added that in line with Russian procedures, her attorneys and the U.S. Embassy should be notified upon her arrival, but that it would take up to two weeks for that to happen. Russia did not notify the United States that Griner was being moved, according to a senior State Department official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Reuters has requested comment from Russia's federal prison service on where Griner is being taken and where she is now. Transfers to penal colonies can be time-consuming as groups of prisoners are assembled and moved to different locations across the world's largest country. Russia has refused to comment on the state of negotiations, saying such diplomacy should not be conducted in public. "Despite a lack of good-faith negotiation by the Russians, the U.S. government has continued to follow up on that offer and propose alternative potential ways forward with the Russians through all available channels," White House spokeswoman Karinne Jean-Pierre said. Discussions over the proposed swap have "not been a static process," the senior State Department official added. Griner's lawyers have not yet said if they will attempt a further appeal against her conviction after a Russian court rejected an attempted appeal on Oct. 25. Inmates in Russian penal colonies face a harsh regime of tedious manual work, poor hygiene and lack of adequate access to medical care. "Our primary concern continues to be BG's health and well-being," Griner's agent, Lindsay Colas, said in a separate statement, referring to the player by her initials. "As we work through this very difficult phase of not knowing exactly where BG is or how she is doing, we ask for the public's support in continuing to write letters and express their love and care for her," Colas said.

US President Joe Biden expects Russia to get more serious about prisoner swap for basketballer Brittney Griner

Taliban regime in Afghanistan on Monday (September 19) freed Mark Freirich, an American engineer in a prisoner swap. US in turn released Taliban-linked Afghan tribal leader Bashir Noorzai. US President Joe Biden granted clemency to the convicted drug smuggler who was detained since 2005.

Freirich was abducted in 2020 while working in Afghanistan. The prisoner exchange took place at Kabul airport.

Biden said Frerichs' release was the culmination of work by US officials and other governments. His administration has been under pressure from the families of Americans detained by hostile foreign governments and Biden says he wants to increase efforts for their release.

"Bringing the negotiations that led to Mark’s freedom to a successful resolution required difficult decisions, which I did not take lightly," Biden said in a statement, without confirming the release of Noorzai.

Reuters quoted an unnamed US official who said that Noorzai was given clemency by Biden.

Noorzai was detained under charges of drug smuggling of more than USD 50 million.

He was found guilty following a jury trial in New York in September 2008 and sentenced to life in prison in 2009.

Noorzai's lawyer had denied that his client was a drug dealer and argued that the charges should be dismissed because US&nbsp;officials duped him into believing he would not be arrested.

Frerichs is an engineer and US&nbsp;Navy veteran from Lombard, Illinois, who worked in Afghanistan for a decade on development projects. He was kidnapped in February 2020.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taliban regime in Afghanistan on Monday (September 19) freed Mark Freirich, an American engineer in a prisoner swap. US in turn released Taliban-linked Afghan tribal leader Bashir Noorzai.

Taliban regime in Afghanistan on Monday (September 19) freed Mark Freirich, an American engineer in a prisoner swap. US in turn released Taliban-linked Afghan tribal leader Bashir Noorzai. US President Joe Biden granted clemency to the convicted drug smuggler who was detained since 2005. Freirich was abducted in 2020 while working in Afghanistan. The prisoner exchange took place at Kabul airport. Biden said Frerichs' release was the culmination of work by US officials and other governments. His administration has been under pressure from the families of Americans detained by hostile foreign governments and Biden says he wants to increase efforts for their release. "Bringing the negotiations that led to Mark’s freedom to a successful resolution required difficult decisions, which I did not take lightly," Biden said in a statement, without confirming the release of Noorzai. Reuters quoted an unnamed US official who said that Noorzai was given clemency by Biden. Noorzai was detained under charges of drug smuggling of more than USD 50 million. He was found guilty following a jury trial in New York in September 2008 and sentenced to life in prison in 2009. Noorzai's lawyer had denied that his client was a drug dealer and argued that the charges should be dismissed because US officials duped him into believing he would not be arrested. Frerichs is an engineer and US Navy veteran from Lombard, Illinois, who worked in Afghanistan for a decade on development projects. He was kidnapped in February 2020. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Taliban release US engineer in a prisoner swap

The Russian government could be trying to extract significant concessions from America through a basketball player. 6 months ago, Russia had arrested Brittney Griner. She has been found guilty of smuggling and sentenced to 9 years in jail. The Biden administration is now under pressure to ensure Griner's release. Washington has offered a prisoner to the Kremlin. The question is will Putin accept Biden's offer?

US offers prisoner swap to Russia | Fate of WNBA player hangs in balance

According to reports, the U.S. government is prepared to swap notorious Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout for Paul Whelan and Brittney Griner, two Americans currently jailed in Russia. Molly Gambhir tells you all about this prisoner swap.

WION Fineprint: Arms dealer Viktor Bout could be freed in a prisoner swap

In a massive prisoner exchange, 144 soldiers, most former defenders of the Azovstal steelworks in the southern port city of Mariupol, had been freed in a prisoner swap with Moscow on Wednesday, Ukrainian officials said, as reported by AFP.

"This is the largest exchange since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion," the main intelligence directorate of Ukraine's defence ministry said on Telegram. "Of the 144 freed, 95 are Azovstal defenders," he added.&nbsp;

It did not specify when and where the swap took place or how many Russian prisoners were released as part of the exchange. But Pro-Russian separatist leader Denis Pushilin said 144 soldiers from Russia and the Donetsk People's Republic -- the name of the breakaway region recognised by Moscow -- had "returned home".

The Ukrainian ministry statement said most of their exchanged soldiers had been seriously wounded by bullets or shell fragments, while others were suffering from burns and fractures.&nbsp;

It said that 43 of the freed servicemen belonged to the Azov regiment, a former paramilitary unit that is now integrated into the Ukrainian army.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-stock-market-slips-as-consumer-confidence-plummets-493036">Global stock market slips as consumer confidence plummets</a>

Russia considers the unit a neo-Nazi organisation and has previously said its soldiers should stand trial.

Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmygal confirmed the exchange on Telegram, saying only that the work to free the prisoners had been "complicated".

Moscow and Kyiv have exchanged prisoners several times since Russia invaded on February 24.

The most recent previous exchange took place on Tuesday and involved 17 Ukrainian prisoners.

(with inputs from agencies) 
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In a massive prisoner exchange, 144 soldiers, most former defenders of the Azovstal steelworks in the southern port city of Mariupol, had been freed in a prisoner swap with Moscow on Wednesday, Ukrainian officials said, as reported by AFP.

In a massive prisoner exchange, 144 soldiers, most former defenders of the Azovstal steelworks in the southern port city of Mariupol, had been freed in a prisoner swap with Moscow on Wednesday, Ukrainian officials said, as reported by AFP. "This is the largest exchange since the start of the full-scale Russian invasion," the main intelligence directorate of Ukraine's defence ministry said on Telegram. "Of the 144 freed, 95 are Azovstal defenders," he added. It did not specify when and where the swap took place or how many Russian prisoners were released as part of the exchange. But Pro-Russian separatist leader Denis Pushilin said 144 soldiers from Russia and the Donetsk People's Republic -- the name of the breakaway region recognised by Moscow -- had "returned home". The Ukrainian ministry statement said most of their exchanged soldiers had been seriously wounded by bullets or shell fragments, while others were suffering from burns and fractures. It said that 43 of the freed servicemen belonged to the Azov regiment, a former paramilitary unit that is now integrated into the Ukrainian army. Also Read: Global stock market slips as consumer confidence plummets Russia considers the unit a neo-Nazi organisation and has previously said its soldiers should stand trial. Ukraine's Prime Minister Denys Shmygal confirmed the exchange on Telegram, saying only that the work to free the prisoners had been "complicated". Moscow and Kyiv have exchanged prisoners several times since Russia invaded on February 24. The most recent previous exchange took place on Tuesday and involved 17 Ukrainian prisoners. (with inputs from agencies) 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.

Massive Russia-Ukraine prisoner swap, 144 Ukrainian soldiers freed

It is soon going to be 90 days since Russia chose to invade Ukraine. Residents and local fighters have been held captive and some have even been brought to Russia as prisoners. So authorities in Kyiv are trying to strike a deal with Moscow on how to bring Ukrainians back home

Russia-Ukraine war: Moscow mulls prisoner swap with Kyiv

prisoner-swap

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