Editorial: El País

• The exchange of 26 prisoners between the West and Russia could suggest a new cold war.
• This exchange resulted from months of diplomatic negotiations, mediated by Turkey.
• A pattern is evident in the types of individuals both sides are working to free, including journalists, dissidents and opponents.
• Putin has demonstrated a willingness to use prison and violence to intimidate journalists and opponents.
• The cost of these exchanges could provide new incentives for Putin to use any individual as a hostage in this geopolitical game.

Conclusion: The recent prisoner exchange between Russia and the West not only reveals new geopolitical tensions, but also showcases the aggressive tactics that Putin is willing to use to maintain his control and power, including intimidation and violence against journalists and opponents.

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