A significant East-West prisoner exchange was announced by the White House, resulting in the return of multiple U.S. citizens, including Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelan, who had been held in Russia. In total, 26 prisoners were exchanged, with twelve German and Russian political prisoners returning to Germany, and eight individuals returning to Russia from various countries. The deal has been noted as the largest exchange since the Cold War, involving the release of Russian spies, such as Vadim Krasikov, in exchange for foreign captives. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock refrained from commenting on the speculations surrounding Germany's role in the negotiations. This exchange further emphasizes the ongoing tensions and diplomatic maneuvers between Russia and Western nations amidst the backdrop of the Ukraine conflict.