In a recent development, the Kremlin announced a prisoner exchange with the United States, confirming the release of a Russian national in return for American Marc Fogel, whilst withholding the Russian citizen’s identity until their arrival.
During a press briefing, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s spokesperson, indicated that Alexander Vinnik would return home shortly, as reported by the Associated Press. This approach differs from previous exchanges, where both parties were released simultaneously.
Peskov elaborated that enhanced communication between relevant agencies facilitated the exchange. He said, “These contacts have led to the release of Vogel, as well as one of the citizens of the Russian Federation, who is currently being held in custody in the United States. This citizen of the Russian Federation will also be returned to Russia in the coming days.”
Vinnik, apprehended in Greece in 2017 at American authorities’ request for cryptocurrency fraud, was later transferred to the US where he admitted to money laundering conspiracy charges.
Sergey Lavrov, Russia’s foreign minister, remained reserved about the exchange details, emphasising the importance of discretion in such matters. He expressed disapproval of Washington’s swift announcement of Fogel’s release, noting their preference for maintaining confidentiality.
Fogel, previously designated as wrongfully detained by Russia, returned to American soil on Tuesday. The White House views this exchange as a diplomatic advancement that could potentially influence Ukraine conflict negotiations. Fogel had been imprisoned since August 2021, serving a 14-year sentence.
Steve Witkoff, President Trump’s special envoy, accompanied Fogel from Russia to the White House for a meeting with Trump. Fogel, a Pennsylvania native, was expected to rejoin his family.
Trump refrained from discussing whether he had communications with Putin regarding Fogel’s case or revealing the specifics of what America provided in exchange.