A significant international prisoner exchange took place in Ankara, Turkey, marking the largest such deal between the U.S. and Russia since the Cold War, with 24 prisoners exchanged. Among those released were Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelan, in a complex negotiation involving seven countries. This exchange reflects a shift from traditional spy swaps to securing the release of individuals considered wrongfully detained by the U.S., including journalists and former military personnel. The U.S. has a historical precedent for these exchanges, dating back over 60 years, with notable past cases like the 1962 Glienicke Bridge swap. Analysts are discussing the ethical implications and broader geopolitical ramifications of this groundbreaking deal.