Russia to release reporter Evan Gershkovich and US Marine Paul Whelan

American journalist Evan Gershkovich, reporter at The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), charged with espionage, attends the announcement of the verdict at the Sverdlovsk Region Court. The court has found Gershkovich guilty of espionage and has sentenced him to 16 years in high-security prison.
American journalist Evan Gershkovich, reporter at The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), charged with espionage, attends the announcement of the verdict at the Sverdlovsk Region Court. The court has found Gershkovich guilty of espionage and has sentenced him to 16 years in high-security prison. Photo credit Donat Sorokin/TASS/Sipa USA

Russia has reportedly agreed to release Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan as part of a major prisoner swap with the US.

The news of the reported release comes from Bloomberg and the Wall Street Journal, citing those familiar with the situation.

Both men have been jailed in Russia on espionage charges. The US and both men have denied any wrongdoing.

Citing a Biden administration official, CBS News reports that Russian-American radio journalist Alsu Kurmasheva is also included in the exchange.

The report from Bloomberg says that they are currently en route to destinations outside of Russia.

The swap, if completed successfully, will include 24 prisoners, with the US, Russia, Germany, and three other Western countries involved, CBS News reports

At least 12 political prisoners held in Russia are expected to be released to Germany, the outlet shared.

Eight Russian nationals, several with suspected ties to Russian intelligence, are expected to be returned in exchange for the prisoners they hold.

The exchange has not yet occurred.

This is a breaking story that will be updated as more information becomes available. 

Featured Image Photo Credit: Donat Sorokin/TASS/Sipa USA