King Statement on Release of Wrongfully Detained Americans from Russian Prisons

WASHINGTON, D.C.-Today, U.S. Senator Angus King released the following statement after Bowdoin College graduate, Evan Gershkovich, and former United States Marine, Paul Whelan, were released from Russian custody in a historic prisoner swap involving seven countries:

"I am ecstatic to hear the news that Americans, among them Evan Gershkovich and Paul Whelan, have been released from Russia and are on their way home. For far too long, they have both been imprisoned arbitrarily as part of Putin's global war on democracy and freedom of speech.

"Journalism is not a crime - a free press is critical to the foundation of a democratic society and common human rights around the world. Since his graduation from Bowdoin College, Evan Gershkovich has committed himself to responsible, ethical journalism in all corners of the globe. Similarly, Paul Whelan's attendance at a friend's wedding in Moscow did not constitute criminality in any sense of the word.

"Today, we are celebrating that Americans are coming home, but we must also recommit ourselves to securing the release of all Americans wrongfully detained or imprisoned abroad. As we face some of the greatest challenges on the geopolitical stage, let us remember that diplomacy is oftentimes a quiet, incremental process conducted carefully behind the scenes. It is a joyous day for the family members of the released prisoners and a milestone victory for the international diplomatic corps. On behalf of a grateful state, thank you to the President for bringing Evan and Paul home."

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