Only recently have US officials started to apply pressure for release and return amid a growing chorus of criticism from lawmakers and advocates.
“The Russians are required to give us that access.
“She was a guest in Russia with the WNBA—and I will be demanding her release.” She added that “the fight is on,” according to Politico.
When asked about Griner’s case at a press conference earlier this month, White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki declined to comment on the “specifics” of the case, citing Privacy Act waiver requirements.
Griner remains detained in Russian jail after being stopped at an airport, allegedly in possession of cannabis oil.
The athlete “remains in a Russian prison for violating the country’s illegal substance laws … Every American—regardless of their race, gender, or socioeconomic status—must adhere to the rules of every sovereign nation,” they said.
Griner made a mistake in violating Russia’s illegal substance laws, but her crime doesn’t match the unjust punishment she faces as a pawn of the Russian government.
“Brittney Griner’s imprisonment is a grotesque affront to the concept of justice.
Griner’s situation is precarious, especially in the current political climate.