A prisoner swap between U.S., Russia could free a Novi man. But should America negotiate with hostile adversaries?

Jul 20, 2022; Washington, DC, United States; Roger Rusesabagina touches an image of his father Paul Rusesabagina, who has been held in Rwanda since August 31, 2020, which is part of a mural honoring 18 wrongfully detained Americans is unveiled in Washington DC on Wednesday, July 20, 2022. One of those honored on the mural is Paul Whelan, image shown to the right, who has been detained in Russia since 2018. Whelan is a former US Marine and convicted by Russian officials on espionage charges in 2020.
Jul 20, 2022; Washington, DC, United States; Roger Rusesabagina touches an image of his father Paul Rusesabagina, who has been held in Rwanda since August 31, 2020, which is part of a mural honoring 18 wrongfully detained Americans is unveiled in Washington DC on Wednesday, July 20, 2022. One of those honored on the mural is Paul Whelan, image shown to the right, who has been detained in Russia since 2018. Whelan is a former US Marine and convicted by Russian officials on espionage charges in 2020. Photo credit Jack Gruber-USA TODAY

(WWJ) - On Wednesday, President Joe Biden said the United States has offered a prisoner swap that would free two Americans, including Novi's Paul Whelan who has been in Russian custody since December of 2018.

The offer is rumored to include convicted Russian arms dealer, Viktor Bout, who is currently serving a 25-year-sentence.

Nicknamed the "Merchant of Death," Bout was found guilty in 2012 on charges of conspiring to kill Americans, acquire and export anti-aircraft missiles, and provide support to a terrorist organization.

So, are the suspected negotiations surrounding the former Soviet military officer the right move to bring home two wrongfully detained Americans?

Or is it dangerous?

In a new Daily j, WWJ's Zach Clark explores the repercussions of such an exchange.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Jack Gruber-USA TODAY