Image credits: Business Standard
Turkey’s dedication to diplomacy and mediation was underscored Friday after its National Intelligence Organization (MIT) orchestrated one of the largest prisoner swaps since the Cold War. The exchange, which took place in Ankara, involved 26 individuals from seven countries, marking a significant moment in international relations.
Presidential Communications Director Fahrettin Altun praised the swap as a model for resolving regional issues, emphasizing Türkiye’s role in facilitating dialogue. The operation, led by MIT, brought together representatives from Russia, the U.S., Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, and Belarus, and was the first major swap between Russia and Western nations since December 2022, when U.S. basketball player Brittney Griner was exchanged for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout.
The historic swap included prominent figures such as Wall Street Journal journalist Evan Gershkovich, former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan, Russian dissident Ilya Yashin, and FSB colonel Vadim Krasikov. Gershkovich, who had been detained in Russia on espionage charges since March 2023, was among those released, alongside Whelan, who had been imprisoned on similar charges. The German mercenary Rico Krieger, held in Belarus, was also part of the exchange.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed relief and satisfaction with the swap, which also involved the release of German detainees. Scholz met with the freed prisoners upon their arrival in Cologne/Bonn, highlighting the emotional impact of the operation.
Türkiye’s role in the swap, conducted in July 2024, demonstrates its commitment to fostering dialogue and easing international tensions. MIT’s involvement ensured the successful coordination of the swap, including the logistical planning, security measures, and medical checks required for such a complex operation. The agency facilitated communication between all parties and oversaw the entire process.
This swap is considered the most extensive between Russia and Western countries since World War II. Prior to this, major swaps involving more than a dozen individuals were rare, occurring mainly during the Cold War. Türkiye’s position as an intermediary has been further cemented by its involvement in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where it has acted as a mediator and brokered critical agreements, including a grain deal. The country’s ongoing efforts to maintain stability and foster diplomatic solutions continue to gain international recognition.