US secures release of 3 Americans in prisoner swap with China

The United States secured the release of three American citizens detained in China through a prisoner exchange. The swap involved the release of three Chinese prisoners, including an FBI informant, in exchange for the Americans, who faced charges ranging from drug-related offenses to espionage. The Biden administration led the negotiations that culminated in the Americans' return to the United States just in time for the holidays.

Release of 3 Americans

• 00:00:00 Mark Swedan, KY Lee, and John Leang, three American citizens detained in China, were released in a prisoner swap with China. Swedan was imprisoned for over 12 years on drug charges despite a lack of evidence, while Lee and Leang faced espionage charges. The release followed intense negotiations between the U.S. and Chinese governments, including a meeting between President Biden and Xi Jinping.

Prisoner Exchange Details

• 00:00:28 In exchange for the three American citizens, China received three of its own prisoners, including a spy captured by the FBI. The swap signifies a complex geopolitical exchange, where the U.S. prioritized the return of its citizens. The individuals released by China had varying charges and circumstances, highlighting the delicate nature of the negotiations.