Russia warns prisoners

In a significant prisoner exchange, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev issued a stark warning to freed political dissidents, including Vladimir Kara-Murza and Evan Gershkovich, advising them to adopt new identities and disguise themselves. Medvedev, now Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council, implied that Russia's security services may attempt to assassinate the released individuals, whom he referred to as 'traitors'. Kara-Murza expressed relief at his release, having faced a 25-year sentence for opposing Putin, and described the Russian leader as a 'vengeful, cowardly, greedy old man'. The exchange, which saw several Russian spies and criminals returned to Moscow, has raised concerns regarding the safety of those released. Medvedev's comments reflect a history of violent reprisals against dissidents, exemplified by past incidents involving poisoned defectors. The situation underscores the precarious position of political activists in Russia post-exchange.