The Kremlin announced on Wednesday that the United States has released an unidentified Russian prisoner in exchange for the freedom of American teacher Marc Fogel, who had been detained in Russia since 2021. Fogel's release came after intensified efforts by relevant agencies and contacts from both countries.
Fogel, a history teacher from Pennsylvania, had been serving a 14-year prison sentence in Russia for possession of medically prescribed marijuana. His family expressed relief and gratitude upon his safe return to the U.S., where he arrived late last night and received medical attention.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the identity of the Russian prisoner released by the U.S. will be disclosed upon their return to Russia. The prisoner is expected to be repatriated in the coming days.
Upon his return to the U.S., Fogel met with President Donald Trump at the White House, where he praised Trump and others involved in securing his release as heroes. Trump, when asked about any concessions made for Fogel's release, mentioned that the U.S. had not given up much, without providing further details.
This diplomatic exchange marks a significant development in U.S.-Russia relations and highlights the importance of international cooperation in resolving such cases. Both countries have expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the negotiations and the safe return of their respective citizens.
