President Obama defended his decision to exchange five Taliban terrorists from Guantanamo Bay to secure the release of Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, referring to a “pretty sacred rule” not to leave any American soldiers behind.

Obama hinted that he acted in spite of questions raised about Bergdahl’s disappearance.

Obama also insisted that his administration had discussed the release with Congress, “for some time.”

Obama also dismissed concerns that the released prisoners would return to the battlefield.