Episode Details

Today’s Headlines: Today's major international news includes a historic multi-country prisoner swap resulting in the release of 16 individuals, including four Americans, from Russia. The Americans released are journalist Evan Gershkovich, activist Vladimir Kara-Murza, journalist Alsu Kurmasheva, and corporate security executive Paul Whelan. This swap, involving seven countries, is the largest between Russia and the West since the Cold War. Russia receives eight prisoners in return, including assassin Vadim Krasikov. In response to the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, Iranian Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has ordered a retaliatory strike against Israel. The Biden administration anticipates a response similar to previous attacks but potentially larger. Haniyeh was killed by a bomb planted months earlier in a guest house controlled by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The US State Department has recognized Edmundo Gonzalez's electoral victory in Venezuela, urging for a peaceful transition from Nicolás Maduro, who falsely claims victory. Vice President Kamala Harris is vetting potential running mates for her presidential campaign, with six candidates in consideration. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper have withdrawn from contention. Lastly, Simone Biles won her 9th gold medal in the women's all-around gymnastics final, becoming the oldest Olympic women's gymnastics champion since 1952. Teammate Suni Lee secured the bronze medal.

Resources/Articles mentioned in this episode:

• AP News: Live updates: Russia releases Gershkovich, Whelan in largest post-Soviet prisoner swap
• NY Times: Iran’s Leader Orders Attack on Israel for Haniyeh Killing, Officials Say
• Axios: U.S. prepares to counter Iranian attack on Israel within days, U.S. officials say
• NY Times: Bomb Smuggled Into Tehran Guest House Months Ago Killed Hamas Leader
• Axios: U.S. says opposition beat Maduro in Venezuela elections
• NBC News: Harris campaign's vetting team has met with 6 potential VP picks as the selection process nears its end
• AP News: Olympics gymnastics highlights: Simone Biles wins all-around gold

Morning Announcements is produced by Sami Sage alongside Bridget Schwartz and edited by Grace Hernandez-Johnson

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