Hamas' armed wing, Al-Qassam Brigades, announced on Wednesday on its Telegram channel that the group released two hostages who held Russian citizenship.
"In response to efforts by Russian President Vladimir Putin, Hamas released two Russian citizens and handed them over to the International Committee of the Red Cross this evening. The two Russians will be sent to the representatives of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs," the statement reads.
Earlier, the Israeli TV channel Kan 11 reported Hamas' intention to release hostages who hold Russian citizenship in Gaza as a gesture of respect towards Russian President Vladimir Putin.