Marc Fogel, an American teacher who was detained in Russia for over three years, was welcomed back to the US by President Donald Trump after the White House secured his release in an exchange. Fogel, draped in an American flag, expressed his gratitude upon his arrival at the White House, where Trump acknowledged his role in the release.
The deal was negotiated by Trump, Special Envoy for the Middle East Steve Witkoff, and the President's advisers. The exchange was described as a show of good faith from the Russians towards ending the war in Ukraine. Fogel's release was designated as wrongfully detained by the US State Department.
While details of the exchange were not disclosed, Trump emphasized its fairness and reasonableness. He hinted at the possibility of another American being released and praised Russian President Vladimir Putin for his involvement.
Adam Boehler, Trump's pick for special envoy for hostage affairs, hinted at the release of another detained American on Wednesday. Fogel's family expressed relief and gratitude for his return, calling it a healing moment after a challenging period.
Fogel, a history teacher in Moscow, was arrested in 2021 for carrying cannabis recommended for medical purposes. He was sentenced to 14 years in a Russian hard labor camp in 2022. His release was not part of previous prisoner swaps under the Biden administration.
Officials, including Sen. Steve Daines, celebrated Fogel's return and praised Trump for his efforts. Fogel's family, along with lawmakers from Pennsylvania and Montana, expressed joy over his release. The release was not directly linked to the Russia-Ukraine war but was seen as a positive development.
