Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan and Alsu Kurmasheva, a journalist with dual U.S.-Russia citizenship, arrived on American soil, at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, shortly before midnight for a joyful reunion with their families, and were welcomed with open arms from President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris.
The plane touched down around 11:38 p.m., and Biden and Harris stood at the base of the stairs to greet the freed Americans as they stepped off the jet.
An energized and joyful President spoke with the media, telling them of the importance of family. Yes, that’s what a pro-family President talks like.
VP Harris told reporters that the Biden administration understands the importance of the power of diplomacy, and strengthening alliances.
The three flew from Maryland to Texas and landed at Joint Base San Antonio early Friday to begin medical evaluations after spending some time with their family members. If they choose, they can receive treatment the military offers to wrongfully detained Americans.