Russian Hacker Alexander Vinnik Lands in Moscow After U.S. Prisoner Exchange

Alexander Vinnik, a Russian national convicted of cybercrime, has returned to Moscow after being released by U.S. authorities as part of a prisoner exchange, according to Russian news agencies.

Vinnik, who pleaded guilty in May 2024 to conspiracy to commit money laundering, arrived at Moscow’s Vnukovo Airport on Thursday night, aviation officials confirmed.

His lawyer stated that his flight originated from Istanbul, Türkiye, following his release under a U.S.-Russia exchange agreement.

Vinnik was previously accused of operating BTC-e, a now-defunct cryptocurrency exchange linked to money laundering and cyber fraud. His extradition and conviction were part of long-running legal battles involving the U.S., France, and Russia.

Russian officials have not provided details on the terms of his release, but his return marks another high-profile swap between Washington and Moscow amid ongoing diplomatic tensions.

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