US basketball star Brittney Griner, who was arrested in Russia for cannabis possession in 2022, has been released in a high-profile prisoner exchange that took place 10 months after her detention. Griner’s release involved a trade for notorious Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout, marking a significant moment in US-Russian relations amidst ongoing tensions.
The Biden administration has since facilitated the release of three more Americans, furthering what has been described as the largest prisoner exchange between Russia and the West since the Cold War. Those freed included Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, US Marine veteran Paul Whelan, and Russian-American radio journalist Alsu Kurmasheva. This series of exchanges highlights the complex diplomatic efforts underway to secure the freedom of American citizens held abroad.
Anne Fogel expressed feelings of "betrayal" upon learning that her brother, Marc Fogel, was not included in the recent exchanges, despite the administration’s claims of a successful diplomatic maneuver. Marc Fogel, a teacher at the Anglo-American School in Moscow and former US diplomat, was imprisoned on drug charges. Reports indicate he taught English to fellow inmates during his time in prison, demonstrating resilience in challenging circumstances.
Currently, at least 10 Americans remain incarcerated in Russia, including Gordon Black, a US Army staff sergeant accused of theft, and Robert Woodland, an English teacher who was convicted of drug offenses. The fate of these individuals remains uncertain, and it is unclear whether any further negotiations are underway for their release.
Marc Fogel has now returned to the US, accompanied by Steve Witkoff, who served as Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East. Witkoff’s visit to Russia marked a significant diplomatic gesture, as it was the first trip by a senior US official to the country in several years, following a significant reduction in diplomatic contacts after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The recent developments underscore the ongoing challenges and complexities in US-Russian relations, particularly regarding the treatment and release of American citizens detained in Russia. As the situation unfolds, the families of those still imprisoned continue to seek answers and advocate for their loved ones’ freedom.