Russia released Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, American businessman Paul Whelan and two others in a historic prisoner swap involving the United States, Germany and other countries. Russia released a total of 16 prisoners, while the U.S. and other countries released eight Russians. It was the largest prisoner swap since the Cold War.

The historic prisoner swap that brought the release of Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan and others was the result of long and difficult negotiations, not only with Russia but with key American allies. U.S. officials say Germany played a vital role. NBC News' Keir Simmons and Peter Alexander report.

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