Chair Cardin Welcomes Release of American Citizens, Russian Political Prisoners

WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.) Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement after the United States, working closely with our allies, secured the release of numerous American citizens and Russian dissidents unjustly jailed by the Kremlin.

"The return of American citizens Paul Whelan, Evan Gershkovich, and Alsu Kurmasheva marks a welcome end to a searing nightmare for them and their loved ones. Their freedom, secured through the tireless advocacy of their families and the diplomatic efforts of President Biden, Vice President Harris, Secretary Blinken, and Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Carstens, highlights the power of unwavering dedication and stands as a testament to our nation's enduring commitment to its citizens. These Americans should never have endured the hardships imposed on them by the Kremlin, but thanks to the unrelenting efforts of the Biden-Harris Administration and their families, including Paul's sister Elizabeth, Evan's parents Ella and Mikhail, and Alsu's husband Pavel, their ordeal has finally come to an end. I urge all Americans considering travel to Russia, especially dual nationals, to learn from the experiences of these wrongfully detained Americans and avoid traveling to Russia. We also need to collectively work to deter rogue regimes from detaining Americans.

"Equally important is the release of Russian democracy advocates and anti-war activists, including my friend - Vladimir Kara-Murza. I am deeply grateful that he will soon be reunited with his wife, Evgenia, and his children who have bravely fought for his freedom and for the thousands of other Russian citizens unjustly imprisoned on politically motivated charges. Their collective freedom is a victory for those who stand up against oppression and defend human rights, even in the face of great personal risk. The courage of these individuals showcases the unbreakable power of the human spirit. We must continue to work aggressively to secure the release of political prisoners and unlawful detainees around the world."

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