Brittney Griner has called for attention to turn to other Americans being ‘wrongly detained’ around the world on the one-year anniversary of her release from a Russian prison.
Why Brittney Griner was detained in Russia?
Griner, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in basketball, was found with a vape cartridge containing less than a gram of hash oil while entering Russia to play for UMMC Ekaterinburg during the WNBA offseason, which she had done every year since 2014 at that point.
After being sentenced to nine years in prison on drug smuggling charges, despite being designated as wrongfully detained by the United States government, the Phoenix Mercury star also lost an appeal for a lesser sentence and was eventually transferred to Russian Penal colony 270 miles southeast of Moscow.
Which prisoner was exchanged for Brittney Griner?
That was until she was released in a prisoner exchange for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout on December 8, 2022 – and one year on from that emotional day Grimer has issued a statement ahead of the Christmas period.
‘Hello, everyone,’ she wrote on Instagram. ‘This time of year is about spending time with loved ones.
Who approved the prisoner swap?
‘One year ago today, because of President Biden, his team and the support of many of you, our family was one of the 58 families made whole by this Administration. Our family was able to spend the holidays together, a priceless gift.
‘This past year has been a whirlwind and we are grateful for all of your support.
‘Even as we celebrate this season, and as our family celebrates today, we must not forget that our work is not done.
‘There are Americans still wrongly detained in countries around the world, including Paul and Evan in Russia and several Americans held in Venezuela.
‘As you gather with loved ones and take part in your family’s traditions, please tell them how much you love them and also, please take a moment to think about and share a story, send a letter or call a representative about one of the many Americans being held away from their families this holiday season.
‘Wishing you and your family a joyous holiday together.’
