In a heartfelt reunion, journalist Elsu Pawel shared her emotional journey following her release from a Russian prison, where she spent over nine months. Speaking about her newfound freedom, she expressed joy in reconnecting with her family, particularly her daughters, Bibi and Miriam. \"I finally see colors. I see trees, I see plants. I see people,\" she said, reflecting on the overwhelming experience of returning to the outside world.

Pawel described the adjustment process for her and her family, emphasizing the need to transition from a \"culture of fear and distrust\" to one of openness and freedom. She acknowledged the extensive advocacy efforts that took place during her detention, revealing her gratitude towards her colleagues at Radio Free Europe (RFE) and the bipartisan support from the U.S. government, including President Biden's administration and members of Congress. \"I just learned it recently after my release that the efforts were bipartisan... everybody united to bring me home,\" she noted.

During her time in captivity, Pawel recounted the psychological toll of constant humiliation and intimidation, although she did not experience physical violence. \"It was endless days, meaningless days of constant humiliation,\" she recalled, highlighting the pervasive atmosphere of fear that gripped her surroundings. Despite the challenges, she expressed deep appreciation for the collective efforts that ultimately led to her release, marking a significant moment for her family and her career as a journalist.