Details of the historic exchange mediated by Turkish Intelligence in Ankara
Operation Details
According to security sources, the exchange in Ankara involved 7 planes from the USA, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, and Russia, transporting 26 individuals to Turkey.
As part of the operation, 10 hostages, including 2 children, were sent to Russia, 13 hostages to Germany, and 3 to the USA.
The historic exchange also included the mutual release of 26 individuals held in prisons across the USA, Germany, Poland, Slovenia, Norway, Russia, and Belarus.
MİT's Central Role
The process began with requests for assistance from the USA, Russia, and Germany. Türkiye's neutral and constructive stance, particularly in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and its successful past mediations made it a preferred choice for the involved parties. With President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's approval, MİT took a leading role in the exchange.
High-level MİT officials, including MİT Director İbrahim Kalın, frequently met with the parties to address concerns and facilitate agreements. MİT's effective and impartial interventions resolved any issues, ensuring the operation proceeded smoothly.
Meticulous Planning and Execution
MİT managed every aspect of the exchange, ensuring no disruptions. On August 1, early in the morning, security measures were implemented at Ankara Esenboğa Airport without disrupting regular activities. The operation began at 16:05 with the arrival of the first plane from Slovenia.
Following Slovenia, planes from Poland, Norway, Russia, Germany, and the USA landed, marking the start of the exchange. Throughout the process, the safety of the 26 individuals involved was paramount.
Flawless Coordination
MİT oversaw the entire operation to prevent any potential disruptions. First, the 10 individuals to be sent to Russia were disembarked, followed by the transfer of 16 individuals from Russia. After mutual verification and health checks supervised by MİT, the exchanged individuals were boarded onto their respective flights back to Moscow, Washington, and Germany.
The operation was successfully completed as the planes took off, marking a historic achievement for MİT.
Acknowledgments from the USA and Russia
Following the operation, President Erdoğan received a call from US President Joe Biden, who expressed his gratitude for the smooth execution of the exchange. The Kremlin also issued a statement thanking all involved countries for their cooperation in the operation facilitated by MİT.
