MOSCOW -- Russian President Vladimir Putin personally welcomed the return of several Russian citizens who had been released as part of a prisoner exchange with Western countries, Russia's TASS News Agency reported on Friday.

The report said a special flight carrying the freed Russians landed at Moscow's Vnukovo-2 Airport, where a red carpet and a guard of honor from the Presidential Regiment awaited.

At the airport, Putin greeted each individual with a handshake or a hug. Among those he welcomed was Vadim Krasikov, who was released by Germany.

Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov and Federal Security Service Director Alexander Bortnikov, who accompanied Putin, also greeted the returning Russians.

Putin delivered a brief speech at the airport, expressing gratitude for the loyalty of the released Russians and congratulating them on their return.