Both Americans, Griner and Whelan, continue to wait for Russian answers to the US dealBy: Chris Gilmore/TRT Reporter—The U.S. deal to Russia, aimed at getting Americans Britney Griner and Paul Whelan released, has hit a wall since the offer has seemingly not been accepted by Russia, according to CBS News. The Biden administration, CNN reported, allegedly offered Russia the release of Viktor Bout in exchange for the release of the two jailed Americans. And it also signaled the first time that the Biden Administration openly stated its intent to get WNBA star and gold medalist Griner home, along with Whelan. Griner was arrested on drug charges in February and pleaded guilty to the charges earlier this month. According to other media reports, the families of Whelan, “who has been held by Russia for alleged espionage since 2018,” and Griner, have “urged the White House to secure their release, including via a prisoner exchange if necessary.”This story will be updated as it continues to develop.
Source: CNN July 28, 2022 05:40 UTC