Kremlin denies discussing release of political prisoners in return for sanctions relief with US
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has stated that Russia is not discussing the easing of sanctions with the United States in exchange for the release of prisoners and denied the existence of political prisoners in the country.
Source: Ukrainska Pravda, citing Interfax
Quote from Peskov: "In this context, this topic has not been and could not be discussed, because we categorically deny the existence of any political prisoners and consider the wording of the question completely inappropriate."
Details: Peskov also noted: "Regarding the various [prisoner] exchanges that have taken place previously, our secret services maintain regular contact on this matter."
In response to a follow-up question, the Kremlin spokesman also stated that in principle, the subject of sanctions relief in exchange for the release of certain prisoners is not being discussed with the US.
Background:
- The Atlantic recently reported that US President Donald Trump has allegedly agreed to a proposal by his special envoy, John Coale, to ease sanctions against Russia in exchange for the release of certain prisoners held in the Russian Federation.
- Prior to this, The New York Times reported that the White House was considering signing certain business agreements with Russia before the war ends to "prove its good intentions".
- It is worth noting that Russia has already made attempts to "entice" Trump with the benefits of potential economic cooperation, suggesting joint rare-earth metals and aluminium mining projects, projects in the Arctic, and involving US companies in selling Russian natural gas to Europe.
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