The two-time Olympic gold medalist, 32, was arrested in February when she tried to leave Russia, where she was playing basketball during the WNBA season.
She testified in court that she used prescribed cannabis oil to treat sports injuries, but forgot the cartridges in her luggage as she hurried to pack for her trip. me.
US diplomats are under intense pressure to negotiate a prisoner exchange for Griner and Paul Whelanwho was arrested in 2018 and charged with espionage.
Speaking to reporters at the White House after midterm elections on TuesdayPresident Joe Biden said there were several discussions to try to secure Griner’s release.
“I hope that now that our election is over, there will be a willingness to negotiate more specifically with us,” Biden said. “I am determined to bring her home and bring her home safely.”
Supporters say Americans are being viewed by the Kremlin as political pawns amid the ongoing fallout from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“We are grateful for everyone’s support and hope that as we near 9 months of incarceration, that BG and all the wrongfully detained Americans will have mercy and return home to their families. during the holidays,” Colas said.
