Russia Releases American Educator Marc Fogel from Prison | Global News
A teacher from the United States, who was sentenced to 14 years in a Russian prison, has been freed and is on his way home to reunite with his family.
Marc Fogel, 63, was seen aboard a flight to the US on Tuesday, over three years after his arrest in Moscow on charges of drug smuggling.
His detention occurred after he was found with what his family described as medically prescribed cannabis. In December, the US government classified him as wrongfully detained.
Mr. Fogel departed Russia alongside Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, which officials suggested could aid in initiating talks to resolve the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
US national security adviser Mike Waltz remarked: “President Trump, Steve Witkoff, and the president’s team orchestrated an exchange that demonstrates goodwill from the Russians.”
“By tonight, Marc Fogel will be back on American soil, reunited with his family and loved ones thanks to President Trump’s effective leadership,” he continued.
Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff (left) played a role in securing the release. File pic: Reuters
Moscow has yet to issue a comment, and it remains uncertain what concessions the US may have made.
“We are immensely thankful, relieved, and overwhelmed that after over three years of separation, our father, husband, and son, Marc Fogel, is finally returning home,” the family expressed in a statement.
They described their time apart as “the darkest and most painful period of our lives.”
Mr. Waltz stated that the agreement is “a sign we are heading in the right direction to conclude the harsh and tragic war in Ukraine.”
Donald Trump mentioned last month that his administration was in “very serious” discussions with Russia regarding the future of the situation.
Read more from Sky News:
Trump enforces 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports
Armie Hammer addresses cannibalism and assault allegations
Mr. Fogel’s release occurs six months after he was not included in the largest prisoner exchange since the Cold War.
This significant exchange resulted in the liberation of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and former US Marine Paul Whelan, among others.
Russian assassin Vadim Krasikov was also among those released from Western jails in return.
However, US-Russian national Ksenia Khavana remains imprisoned after receiving a 12-year treason sentence in August due to a $52 donation to a charity supporting Ukraine.
