As I mentioned a few days ago, the recent sentencing of American journalist Evan Gershkovich to 16 years in prison in Russia for "espionage" was nothing more than an effort by Vladimir Putin to gain leverage for the release of Russian prisoners in the U.S.

He and other individuals detained in Russia, such as former Marine Paul Whelan, were exchanged for Russians detained in the U.S. and other Western countries. According to reports, a total of 24 prisoners were exchanged, but details about the identities of all individuals involved were not provided.

The exchange took place at the airport in Ankara, Turkey.