In a powerful and emotional moment late Thursday night, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris welcomed three American heroes back to their homeland after a dramatic prisoner exchange with Russia. The monumental event took place at Andrews Air Force Base, just outside Washington, D.C., as the clock struck 11:45 p.m.
The triumphant arrival marked the return of journalist Evan Gershkovich, former Marine Paul Whelan, and journalist Alsu Kurmasheva, each having endured a harrowing ordeal in Russia. Their plane touched down amidst a surge of relief and celebration, as Biden and Harris stood at the base of the aircraft steps, ready to embrace the returning citizens.
Former Marine Paul Whelan was the first to disembark. President Biden greeted him with heartfelt concern, asking, “How are you doing, sir?” A moment of profound human connection followed as Whelan and Biden shared a warm embrace, symbolizing the end of a challenging chapter. Next to emerge was Gershkovich, who received heartfelt embraces from both Biden and Harris, their reunion underscoring the deep relief and joy of the moment. The President and Vice President also took a moment to connect with the families of these brave individuals.
As Kurmasheva descended the plane, she was greeted with a warm handshake from Harris and a personal conversation with Biden. In a touching gesture, Biden wished her daughter a happy birthday, as the young girl, overwhelmed with emotion, exclaimed, “I can’t believe you’re here.”
Whelan, after reuniting with his family, returned to Biden for another heartfelt handshake. Among those present were Wall Street Journal colleagues of Gershkovich, who gathered on the tarmac to welcome their valued journalist back to the fold.
Earlier in the day, President Biden had met with the families of Gershkovich, Whelan, Kurmasheva, and Vladimir Kara-Murza, another individual released in the deal, at the White House. The President and families engaged in heartfelt conversations with the released individuals from the Oval Office during their transit to Turkey, with families standing beside Biden as he announced the successful negotiation.
In his remarks, President Biden stressed the critical role of international allies in this monumental achievement, highlighting the vital contributions of Slovenia, Norway, and Turkey.
Vice President Harris, who had spoken earlier from Texas before returning to Washington, expressed deep satisfaction and solace, saying, “Today, in spite of all of their suffering, it gives me great comfort to know that their horrible ordeal is now over.” She reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to advocating for the release of other Americans unjustly detained abroad.
This significant moment not only celebrates the return of three courageous individuals but also stands as a testament to the resilience of diplomacy.
