Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Roger Carstens reflects on bringing detained Americans home

Season 2025 Episode 13 | 7m 55s

Roger Carstens' work over the last five years as the special envoy for hostage affairs has led to the release of American hostages held by other countries. He was also part of the team that negotiated Brittney Griner’s freedom and a complex deal that led to the release of Evan Gershkovich, Alsu Kurmasheva and Paul Whelan from Russia. Amna Nawaz sat down with Carstens to discuss his efforts.

Major corporate funding for the PBS News Hour is provided by BDO, BNSF, Consumer Cellular, American Cruise Lines, and Raymond James. Funding for the PBS NewsHour Weekend is provided by Consumer Cellular and Cunard Cruise Line. For a complete list of funders for the PBS NewsHour and PBS NewsHour weekend, click here.
Extras
What to expect as Hurricane Isaias bears down on the Gulf Coast as a major storm
Navi Pillay wins Nobel Peace Prize after long career of investigating war crimes
Brooks and Capehart on the fight for Senate control in battleground states
Ke Huy Quan reflects on his family’s escape from post-war Vietnam on ‘Settle In’
October 9, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode
How local officials are testing voting machines to ensure election integrity
‘It was a definite quid pro quo.’ GOP donor who accused Guilfoyle of corruption speaks out
News Wrap: Trump announces diesel deal with Russia
ICE shooting of man in New York with child in his car sparks outrage
October 8, 2026 - PBS News Hour full episode