American school teacher Marc Fogel, who had been detained in Russia for three and a half years over a minor medical cannabis infraction, has been released and allowed to come home, according to the White House. Fogel, who had been sentenced to 14 years in prison by Russia, was considered “wrongfully detained” by the United States. He was already on a plane leaving Russian airspace with U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff.
The release of Fogel is seen as a step forward in President Donald Trump’s efforts to reach a ceasefire in the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Fogel’s family has been advocating for his release for years. He had been teaching in Russia before authorities picked him up at the airport and prosecuted him for possessing medical cannabis.
The announcement of Fogel’s release brings relief to his family and lawmakers who worked to secure his freedom. U.S. Rep. Chris Deluzio and Sen. John Fetterman expressed gratitude for the administration’s efforts in bringing Fogel home. Sen. Dave McCormick highlighted the joy of Fogel’s 95-year-old mother, who will finally get to see her son in Pennsylvania. Fogel’s return home has been described as long overdue and a welcome outcome for all involved.
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