Following months of uncertainty and repeated extensions of her detention, her name appeared on the list of a major prisoner exchange, allowing her to reunite with her family.
In an interview with broadcaster Czech Radio, Kurmasheva recounted her emotional journey from detention to release.
She expressed a profound sense of freedom and reflected on the significance of simple liberties.
She spoke of the vivid dreams she had of reuniting with her family, which provided her hope during her darkest moments in detention.
Kurmasheva also discussed the psychological challenges she faced and noted the lack of support available to women in Russian detention compared to men.
She emphasised the critical role of international support and her deep gratitude toward those who advocated for her release.
Click on the audio player above to hear the interview.