U.S kicks as Russia moves basketball player, Brittney Griner to penal colony

Admin l Wednesday, November 9, 2022

 

WASHINGTON – The United States of American has raised the alarm following the decision of Russia to move one of its basketball players, Britnney Griner who has been serving jail term in Russia to a remote penal colony.

In a statement, Secretary of State, Antony Blinken described her trial in Russian court as a sham adding that her sentencing was unjust, calling on Moscow to grant its embassy staff access to her and other U.S citizens in Russian detention centres.

“As we work to secure Brittney Griner’s release, we expect Russian authorities to provide our Embassy officials with regular access to all U.S. citizens detained in Russia, including Brittney, as is their obligation”, Blinken said, adding that ensuring the health and welfare of U.S. citizen detainees in Russia is a priority, “and we will continue to press for fair and transparent treatment for them all”, he said.

“Our hearts are with Brittney Griner and Paul Whelan, as well as their family, friends, and supporters, who all continue to suffer from Russia’s decision to wrongfully detain U.S. citizens.

“We continue to work relentlessly to bring them home. I am focused on doing so, as are so many others in the Department. We will not relent until they are reunited with their loved ones”, he said.