Washington D.C. – The Insider, May 19, 2025
Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump discussed a potential prisoner exchange and the prospects for future U.S.-Russia relations during their phone call earlier today, according to Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, who was cited by state-controlled news agency TASS. Ushakov’s statement to the press was also released in full by the business publication RBC.
Speaking to reporters, Ushakov said Trump stressed the need for mutual respect and reciprocal benefit in U.S. dealings with Russia. The two leaders reportedly agreed to prepare a humanitarian prisoner exchange involving nine people from each side — a “9-for-9” swap — which Ushakov said is already in the works.
“Prisoner exchanges involving citizens of both countries were mentioned. This is an important humanitarian action — several such actions have already taken place in recent months. The presidents noted that another exchange, involving 9 people on each side, is currently being worked out,” Ushakov said.
Ushakov did not specify which individuals might be included in the exchange or give any details regarding its timing or location.
