3 sources·World

Prisoner Swap Sees Alexander Vinnik Returned to Russia in Exchange for Marc Fogel

Alexander Vinnik, a Russian cryptocurrency expert, returned to Moscow after a prisoner swap with the U.S. involving Marc Fogel's release.

33%

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Vinnik’s release comes two days after Russian authorities released Pennsylvania school teacher Marc Fogel.
US releases Russian cybercriminal as part of exchange for teacher Marc Fogel
The Guardian·1M
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
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Leans Left
This outlet slightly leans left.
The White House said his release was part of a diplomatic thaw that could advance negotiations to end the fighting in Ukraine.
Russian crypto expert Alexander Vinnik returns to Moscow in Russia-US prisoner swap, reports say
Associated Press·1M
Reliable
This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
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Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
The White House said his release was part of a diplomatic thaw that could advance negotiations to end the fighting in Ukraine.
Russian Crypto Expert Alexander Vinnik Returns to Moscow in Russia-US Prisoner Swap, Reports Say
Newsmax·1M
Mixed Reliable
This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
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Right
This outlet favors right-wing views.

Updated: Feb 13th, 2025, 8:27 PM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

Alexander Vinnik, a cryptocurrency expert and former operator of BTC-e, returned to Russia after a prisoner swap with the U.S. for Marc Fogel, an American teacher. Vinnik faced money laundering charges in the U.S., while Fogel was imprisoned for marijuana possession. Their exchange was seen as a potential step toward improved U.S.-Russia relations and negotiations to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Vinnik thanked both President Putin and U.S. President Trump for his release, and their exchanges have raised hopes for diplomatic progress.

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