US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris spoke by phone Wednesday with Cherelle Griner, wife of US women’s basketball star Brittney Griner, who has been held in a Russian prison since February this year. year.
Griner’s trial was scheduled for last Friday (1), but ended up postponed and can be resumed this Thursday (7).
Biden also wrote in response to the player’s letter, and shared it with Cherelle during the call.
“The president called Cherelle to reassure her that he is working to secure Brittney’s release as soon as possible, as well as the release of Paul Whelan and other US citizens who are wrongfully held or held hostage in Russia and around the world. He also read her a draft of the letter the president is sending to Brittney Griner,” the White House said.
The basketball star wrote in a letter delivered to Biden on Monday that he fears being detained in Russia indefinitely.
“As I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey or any accomplishments, I’m afraid to stay here forever,” Griner said.
“I know you’re dealing with so much, but please don’t forget about me and the other American detainees. Please do your best to bring us home. I voted for the first time in 2020 and I voted for you. I believe you. I still have so much good to do with my freedom that you can help restore it,” she wrote.
The White House said Biden “offered his support to the family of Cherelle and Brittney, and pledged to ensure they receive all possible assistance as his administration seeks all avenues to bring Brittney home.” Biden also directed his team to remain in “regular contact” with the family.
Griner, 31, who played in Russia after the US women’s basketball WNBA season, was arrested Feb. 17 at a Moscow airport, a week before Russia invaded Ukraine.
Russian authorities alleged that she had cannabis oil in her luggage and accused her of smuggling significant amounts of a narcotic substance, a crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison in Russia.
Griner supporters and US officials say she was wrongfully detained and are calling for her release as fears mount that the player is being used for political reasons amid rising tensions between Russia and the US.
Source: CNN Brasil
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