A written statement regarding the exchange operation led by the National Intelligence Organization (MIT) was issued by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The statement noted that France shares the emotions of the families and allied governments following the exchange of several individuals in Russia, including Russian dissident Ilya Yashin.
The statement said, “France expresses relief, particularly in light of the detention conditions these individuals were subjected to and the health risks they faced,” and added that France honors the courage of men and women defending freedom of expression and thought despite all risks, both in Russia and elsewhere.
The statement included, “Our thoughts are with those arbitrarily detained in Russia, especially our citizen Laurent Vinatier. France demands their immediate release.”
Yesterday, MIT conducted the largest exchange operation in recent times, involving the mutual exchange of 26 individuals imprisoned in the United States, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, Russia, and Belarus.
Prominent individuals exchanged in the operation include The Wall Street Journal journalist Evan Gershkovich, former American marine Paul Whelan, German mercenary Rico Krieger, Russian dissident Ilya Yashin, and Russian Federal Security Service officer Vadim Krasikov.
