WASHINGTON – After being held captive for over six years by militants in Niger, American aid worker Jeff Woodke was released on Monday according to U.S. officials.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s official visit to Niger, as the first top American diplomat to do so, occurred days prior to the announcement of Woodke’s release.
“I’m gratified & relieved to see the release of U.S. hostage Jeff Woodke after over 6 years in captivity,” U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan said on Twitter. “The U.S. thanks Niger for its help in bringing him home to all who miss & love him.”
A senior administration official commended Niger for its assistance in the liberation of Woodke, however the individual declined to disclose their exact whereabouts on Monday. The official, who communicated with reporters via telephone and asked to remain anonymous, also mentioned that Woodke’s family had been apprised of the situation.
His wife Els said she had not yet heard from him, but was told that he was in good condition, a statement on a website calling for his freedom said.
“She has expressed her profound thanks to the many people in governments and others around the world who have worked so hard to see this result. She praises God for answering the prayers of Christians everywhere who have prayed for this outcome,” the statement said.
No ransom or other exchange of goods or services was involved in Woodke’s release, and no negotiations between the militant organization that held Woodke, and the U.S. took place, according to the senior U.S. official.
The official stated that Woodke’s exact whereabouts during his captivity were not fully discernible, though it was known that he had been held in multiple places and nations.
The official declined to identify the group responsible for holding him but referred to it as a “captive network operating across Niger, Mali, and the Burkina Faso region”.
Woodke was released outside of Niger. The New York Times first reported his release.
The official also said Niger was part of the effort that helped free a second U.S. citizen held by the same network, although he did not name that citizen or provide details around their release.
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