Prisoners of Putin

Evan Gershkovich and 15 others, finally free

- NIK POPLI

THOUGH PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN DID THE HONORS WHEN it came time to announce the news, the historic Aug. 1 swap that resulted in the release of more than 20 Russian-held prisoners including Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and two other American citizens-relied on the cooperation of seven countries. At a time of deepening global tensions, the rare moment of collaboration was not just a cause for celebration among the prisoners and their families, but also a significant diplomatic achievement.

For Biden, who has long pledged both to secure the release of imprisoned Americans and to support prodemocracy movements abroad, the sweeping exchange was a meaningful victory at a moment when, amid the drama of the presidential election, his capacity to lead had been cast into doubt. Standing alongside the families of the released prisoners, he acknowledged the critical role played by allied nations, framing the win as proof that the U.S. can still lead in the realm of international cooperation.