WNBA star Brittney Griner and former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan, who are being held in Russia, could gain release by the end of this year, said former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations Bill Richardson, who traveled to Moscow in September.
By Tyler Clifford
"I am cautiously optimistic on the Griner Whelan negotiations," said Richardson, who is also former governor of New Mexico and who has worked privately to secure the release of American detainees abroad. U.S. citizen Griner, a two-time Olympic basketball gold medalist, was sentenced to nine years in a Russian prison on Aug. 4 after pleading guilty to drug charges. She insisted she inadvertently broke the law when she traveled with vape cartridges containing hashish oil in her luggage.
Reports have surfaced that Moscow has sought the release of a second Russian, but Washington has not confirmed further details on its exact offer.
Brasil Últimas Notícias, Brasil Manchetes
Similar News:Você também pode ler notícias semelhantes a esta que coletamos de outras fontes de notícias.
Russia Could Release Griner And Whelan By End Of Year, Former UN Ambassador Richardson ClaimsBill Richardson, who traveled to Moscow for talks on Griner and Whelan, said he was “cautiously optimistic” about the basketball star and former marine’s release—though the White House has cautioned private citizens should not be involved in negotiations.
Consulte Mais informação »
Brittney Griner at 'weakest moment' in Russia, her wife saysWNBA star Brittney Griner is at her “absolute weakest moment in life right now” as she faces a hearing in Russia later this month for her appeal of a nine-year prison sentence for drug possession, Griner's wife said in an interview aired Thursday.
Consulte Mais informação »
Former Gov. Bill Richardson suggests Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan may be released by end of year | CNN PoliticsFormer Gov. Bill Richardson said Sunday he is 'cautiously optimistic' that two Americans wrongfully detained by Russia will be released and suggested they could be freed by the end of the year.
Consulte Mais informação »
Former Gov. Bill Richardson suggests Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan may be released by end of yearFormer Gov. Bill Richardson said Sunday he is 'cautiously optimistic' that two Americans wrongfully detained by Russia will be released and suggested they could be freed by the end of the year.
Consulte Mais informação »