Prisoner Swap
January 9, 2023
Women’s basketball player, Brittney Griner, was found guilty back in August for attempting to smuggle narcotics into Russia. She was arrested in Moscow and sentenced to 10 years maximum in a Russian prison.
Griner plays for the Phoenix Mercury. She has been traveling overseas during the off season since 2015.
Her and her team were playing abroad during the Russian invasion of Ukraine.The news of this arrest was made public back in February.
Her absence also affected her teammates during their games. Some of teammates tell NBC New York News that they are constantly worrying for her.
Under the Biden administration, the United States had been trying to strike a deal to get Griner back to her home country. Finally, Russia and the U.S. came to an agreement: Brittney Griner in exchange for Viktor Bout.
Viktor Bout was held in the United States Penitentiary for smuggling Russian arms. The deal was a long process for both countries.
Biden issued an executive grant that gave permission to the Illinois federal prison to free Bout for confirmation from Russia to free Griner.
After a 10 month detainment in Russia, Griner was freed and brought back to the United States. She met her wife, Cherelle Griner, as soon as she got back.
Cherelle Griner, awaited her return in the Oval Office at the White House. As for Brittney, she is happy to be back at home.
