Brittney Griner has been released and is on her way home. I am truly excited to share this news.
Senior US administration officials claimed that months and months of “difficult” negotiations with the Russians culminated in Thursday’s prisoner swap that secured Brittney Griner’s release. It was only in recent weeks that it became apparent that there was a window of opportunity for the deal to go through.
The process of removing Griner from the correctional colony where she was serving a lengthy sentence began when the final agreement came together, according to the officials, during the course of the previous 48 hours.
She flew to the United Arab Emirates on an aircraft on Thursday morning. When she arrived, US representatives greeted her on the tarmac, including Roger Carstens, the special presidential envoy for hostage problems. She was “all smiles,” “very happy,” and “grateful.”
According to the officials, the WNBA player is in good condition and is “being offered a wide range of support alternatives.” She will be given access to a “full spectrum” of assistance to ease her return to her home.
After more than 12 years in US custody, Bout’s release needed an act of clemency from the president, to secure Griner’s release.
The United Arab Emirates, where Griner was flown after leaving Russia, was one of the countries that the US worked with in its endeavor to secure Griner’s release. However, when questioned about the Saudi Arabian government’s role in gaining Griner’s release, which claimed in a statement that its powerful crown prince Mohammed bin Salman had led mediation efforts, US officials said a number of nations were involved.
Let this be a reminder to us all that no matter where you stand on this issue, you should always research the laws of the country you are visiting. Things that may be legal in America most likely are not legal in other countries. Always be aware of the laws of the country you are traveling to when traveling internationally.