“Today’s decision while unfortunate was not unexpected and Brittney Griner remains wrongly detained. We greatly appreciate the ongoing efforts of the Administration and the U.S. Department of State in leading the negotiations. It is time to bring this case to an end and bring BG home.”
WNBA Commissioner, Cathy Engelbert, issued this statement just moments after Brittney Griner’s appeal was rejected, and her sentencing upheld. According to various reports, the only way to reduce her sentencing or even come close to getting her released is if the U.S. and Russia can actually agree on a potential prisoner swap “in the future.” There is no time frame for this to occur.
National Security Adviser, Jake Sullivan, also released a statement that echoes all of our sentiments here in the U.S. – she was wrongfully detained in the first place!
“In recent weeks, the Biden-Harris Administration has continued to engage with Russia through every available channel and make every effort to bring home Brittney as well as to support and advocate for other Americans detained in Russia, including fellow wrongful detainee Paul Whelan. The President has demonstrated that he is willing to go to extraordinary lengths and make tough decisions to bring Americans home, as his Administration has done successfully from countries around the world. The Administration remains in regular touch with representatives of the families, and we continue to admire their courage in the face of these unimaginable circumstances.”
Griner learned of her fate after participating in the appeal hearing via video call from within her jail cell located just outside of Moscow. The lawyers handling Griner’s case presented valid arguments during her appeal hearing – emphasizing the fact that she had LESS THAN A GRAM of cannabis oil and had no intentions of breaking Russian law. They also noted that the oil was for medical use only. Griner also pled her case, shedding light on how this whole experience has been traumatic for her and nearly begged for the court to reassess her sentence.
U.S. officials criticized the decision made by a three-judge panel, calling out that “the verdict contains numerous defects,” and that they “hoped the court of appeal would take them into consideration.”
With her sentence upheld, Griner is expected to be transferred to another facility but even that could take several months. It’s truly a disheartening situation, especially after hearing about Griner’s loss of optimism. She shared with reporters that she “didn’t expect any miracles.”
In her honor, let’s keep hope alive. Bring BG home!
