For a brief moment, Evan Gershkovich’s return to US soil went unnoticed amid the focus on Paul Whelan, the former marine who had spent over 2,000 days in a Russian prison. As Whelan was greeted by President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, Harris turned and spotted Gershkovich. He greeted her with open arms, and she responded with mock surprise before they embraced—a touching moment.
Gershkovich then made his way to his mother, Ella, who had tirelessly worked to secure his release through a complex prisoner swap. Their emotional reunion was marked by a heartfelt bear hug—a second poignant moment.
Finally, Gershkovich approached the waiting journalists, eager to connect with colleagues and answer questions despite having been freed only that morning. When asked about his freedom, he responded with a nonchalant, “Not bad.”
He also expressed his feelings about boarding the bus with other freed detainees, including Russians, and voiced a desire to draw attention to the plight of lesser-known political prisoners he encountered during his month in prison in Yekaterinburg.
“There’s one thing I’d like to say,” Gershkovich remarked. “It was great to get on that bus today and see not just Americans and Germans but Russian political prisoners as well. I’d like to explore what can be done for them and will discuss this in the coming weeks and months.”
As hundreds of journalists gathered to witness the release of the detainees—who collectively had spent nearly a decade in Russian captivity—Gershkovich’s demeanor was both natural and engaging. His light-hearted approach contrasted sharply with the gravity of his 491 days of imprisonment, and his focus on the remaining political prisoners revealed a deep sense of purpose.
In his brief time in the public eye at the airbase, Gershkovich managed to reassure those around him with his authenticity and ease. His interactions, though briefly political, carried a sense of familiarity and comfort, suggesting that despite the fame and attention, Gershkovich remained grounded and committed to his cause.