Russia

Russian authorities have released Kalob Byers, the 28-year-old American who was arrested in early February for carrying cannabis-infused gummies into the country.

An American citizen traveling in Russia was arrested earlier this month for carrying cannabis-infused gummies in their luggage.

Russia has released American teacher Marc Fogel, who was arrested by Russian customs agents in 2021 on cannabis-related drug charges, in an apparent gesture of goodwill towards the U.S.

WNBA star Brittney Griner, who this year was arrested on drug charges in Russia and sentenced to nine years in a Russian penal colony, is free and on her way home following a one-for-one prisoner swap for Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout.

Brittney Griner was sentenced to nine years in a Russian penal colony for cannabis possession.

The Biden Administration is proposing a prisoner swap for Americans Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan in exchange for Viktor Bout, a Russian who was convicted in the U.S. of arms dealing.

WNBA all-star Brittney Griner pleaded guilty to cannabis possession in Russia. Following the plea, Griner now faces up to 10 years in prison.

Brittney Griner’s trial began today for allegedly smuggling cannabis vape cartridges into Russia and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.  

Russia says it has extended the detention of American WNBA star Brittney Griner, who was caught allegedly bringing cannabis vape cartridges into the country, until July 2.

U.S. officials have not had access to WNBA All-Star Brittney Griner since her February 17 arrest in Russia.

WNBA star Brittney Griner was detained in Russia last week after customs discovered vape cartridges said to contain cannabis oil in her luggage at the border.