"Trump announces a new hostage release from Russia, aiming to take a step forward," reports CNN.

The Trump administration is preparing for a new hostage release from Russia. Officials at the White House have stated that the previous case involving Fogel was not a "one-for-one" exchange with the Russian detained in the United States.

https://focus.ua/politics/693165-v-ssha-gotovyat-novyy-obmen-zalozhnikami-s-rf-novosti-ukrainy-segodnya2025-02-12 07:45:39

Adam Beyeler, who has been appointed by the U.S. President as the special envoy for hostage affairs, announced a new release of a detainee held in Russia. He stated that "this is just the beginning," and added that it is a "unilateral decision" made by the U.S. in favor of Russia. He shared this information during a conversation with CNN reporters on February 12.

The special envoy provided some details regarding the exchange and the White House's hopes for such actions. According to him, the exchange of Vogel is merely the first step.

"We wanted to take a step forward. And I think you see how Russia is making a move for the president, for President Trump, based on his attention to hostages," Beyeler told reporters.

Additionally, CNN reported that the official "hinted" at new hostage releases. However, he did not disclose details about who would be released or when, only stating that "it will be a surprise for tomorrow."

"You won't see how the exchange is happening right now," the official replied to the publication's journalists.

It is likely that the U.S. is aiming to demonstrate its willingness to engage in dialogue with Russia to achieve progress in future negotiations to end the war, and prior to that, to persuade the Kremlin to be ready for such discussions.

"For us, this means that we are creating and conveying thoughts to others who are non-violent from Russia's perspective," Beyeler noted, clarifying that this way, Trump shows his "openness."