US praises Türkiye’s pivotal role in historic prisoner exchange with Russia

Türkiye has successfully mediated a significant prisoner exchange between the United States and Russia, marking one of the most extensive swaps in recent years. The operation, conducted in Ankara by Türkiye’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT), involved 26 individuals from seven countries, showcasing Türkiye’s growing influence in global diplomacy.

Why it matters

This operation underscores Türkiye’s strategic importance in facilitating complex international negotiations, earning global recognition for its role in securing the release of prisoners across multiple nations.

US praises Türkiye’s pivotal role in historic prisoner exchange with Russia — A screen grab from a video shows eight Russian citizens, who were detained or imprisoned in a number of countries, returning home following a major prisoner swap operation led by Turkiye, at Vnukovo International Airport, in Moscow, Russia, Aug. 1, 2024. (Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation Handout)

Details of swap

The exchange took place in Ankara, involving seven aircraft from the U.S., Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, and Russia.
A total of 26 individuals were transported to Türkiye:
- 10 hostages, including two children, were sent to Russia.
- 13 individuals were transferred to Germany.
- Three were handed over to the U.S.
Belarus was also involved in the exchange, highlighting the broad international cooperation coordinated by Türkiye.
The operation is considered one of the most extensive and complex in recent years, showcasing Türkiye’s logistical and diplomatic capabilities.

Diplomatic reactions

President Erdogan’s strategic engagement:

Following the successful swap, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a telephone conversation with U.S. President Joe Biden. The two leaders discussed the smooth execution of the prisoner exchange, regional developments, and the ongoing situation in Gaza.
Erdogan emphasized Türkiye’s concerns over Israel’s actions in Gaza, particularly the recent assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh, which he described as a blow to cease-fire efforts. Erdogan reiterated Türkiye’s commitment to enhancing relations with the U.S. and contributing to peace in the region. Biden expressed his gratitude, thanking Erdogan for Türkiye’s pivotal role in facilitating the exchange.

U.S. Ambassador Jeffrey Flake’s acknowledgment:

U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye Jeffrey Flake publicly expressed his appreciation for Türkiye’s efforts.
In a message posted on X, Flake stated, “I am thrilled that wrongfully detained Americans are now free and being reunited with their families, and I am grateful to the Government of Türkiye for extraordinary support in making today possible.”

Türkiye’s commitment to peace:

The Turkish Foreign Ministry issued a statement reaffirming Türkiye’s dedication to international peace and stability. The statement highlighted the meticulous planning and security measures undertaken by MIT to ensure the operation’s success from start to finish.
Türkiye pledged to continue its efforts in promoting global stability and peace, building on the success of this high-profile prisoner exchange.