France welcomes release of several prisoners held in Russia

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

GENEVA (AA) - France on Friday welcomed a historic prisoner exchange between Russia and the West mediated by Türkiye, urging the release of the remaining prisoners.

"France associates itself with the emotions of the families and allied governments following the release of several political prisoners held in Russia, including Vladimir Kara-Mourza, Ilya Iachine, Oleg Orlov, Alexandra Skotchilenko, Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan, Alsu Kurmasheva, Rico Krieger, Patrick Schobel and Kevin Lik," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

"Our thoughts are with the people who remain arbitrarily detained in Russia, in particular our compatriot Laurent Vinatier," the ministry said, urging their "immediate release."

Türkiye's National Intelligence Organization (MIT) on Thursday mediated a successful prisoner exchange involving seven countries in one of the most extensive swap operations in recent years.

A total of 26 individuals were exchanged, transported to the Turkish capital Ankara on seven aircraft — one each from Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, Russia, and two from the US, according to security sources. Belarus was also involved in the swap.

Ten hostages, including two children, were transferred to Russia, while 13 were sent to Germany, and three to the US.