Russia released 10 foreigners

10 people were released as part of a prisoner swap between Ukraine and Russia. Among them are British and American citizens. They were taken in Saudi Arabia.

According to the New York Times, Saudi Arabian officials confirmed this information on Wednesday (September 21).

In a tweet from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia, it has been mentioned that the prince of the country, Mohammed bin Salman, worked as an intermediary for the release of these 10 people who were held captive by Russia.

The release comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a military buildup in part for the war in Ukraine. This is the first time since World War II that Russia is going to hold such a military gathering.

According to Reuters, the 10 people released include two from the United States, five from the United Kingdom and one each from Croatia, Morocco and Sweden. According to Saudi Arabia’s statement, after bringing them from Russia to Saudi Arabia, arrangements are being made to send them to their respective countries. However, the relevant authorities of Saudi Arabia did not disclose their identity.

According to the New York Times, the two Americans who were released are Alex Druck and Andy Tai Ngoc Huynh. Both are former members of the US security forces. They went there to help the country’s troops in the war in Ukraine.

The 5 British nationals also went there to take part in the Ukraine war. British lawmaker Robert Generick said one of the five released was Aiden Asley. The man was sentenced to death after his arrest in Donetsk.
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British Prime Minister Liz Truss expressed relief after the release of the prisoners. “This is great news for the prisoners and their families after months of uncertainty and suffering,” he said.