LINCOLNSHIRE - Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement on the release of Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan, Alsu Kurmasheva and Vladimir Kara-Murza:

"I join President Biden, Vice President Harris and all Americans in joyfully welcoming home Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan, Alsu Kurmasheva, and Vladimir Kara-Murza. These brave individuals were unjustly detained by a corrupt regime that has weaponized its legal system against journalists, activists, and anyone who dares to challenge its tyranny. Their release is a significant achievement for the power of alliances and a victory for justice. I am thankful for the extraordinary efforts and persistence of President Biden, Vice President Harris, and our dedicated diplomatic corps in securing their freedom.

As we celebrate their return, we must also remain vigilant. The Putin regime continues to demonstrate a blatant disregard for human rights and international norms, as evidenced by the recent brutal repression of political dissidents and the ongoing war against Ukraine. This moment serves as a stark reminder of the broader struggle for freedom and democracy against authoritarianism-a struggle that we must continue to support unwaveringly.

I urge the administration and my colleagues in the House and the Senate to continue applying maximum pressure on the Kremlin to prevent future hostage-taking and to hold those responsible for these injustices accountable. We must also stand in solidarity with the Russian people who are courageously resisting oppression from within, and who dream of a future where their country is free, democratic, and at peace with its neighbors.

The safe return of Evan, Paul, Alsu, and Vladimir is a testament to what can be achieved when we stand together for what is right and how much allies matter. Our work is far from over. We must remain committed to defending freedom and human rights, both at home and abroad."

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