The president is welcoming him back.
An American teacher, Marc Fogel, who had been detained in Russia for over three years due to a minor medical cannabis charge, has been released and is on his way back to the United States, the White House announced. Fogel, 63, was arrested for possessing 17 grams of medical cannabis prescribed for his back pain, which is illegal in Russia. He had been sentenced to 14 years in prison, and his detention was deemed wrongful by the U.S. government.
National security adviser Mike Waltz praised President Donald Trump’s efforts in securing Fogel’s release, stating that he would soon be reunited with his family. Fogel is expected to meet with Trump upon his arrival in Washington, D.C., after traveling on a private plane with U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff. Fogel’s mother, Malphine Fogel, expressed relief and gratitude, stating that she had feared for her son’s future during his time in Russian custody.
The release comes after years of efforts by Fogel’s family and supporters to secure his freedom. Fogel’s mother had previously met with Trump, who promised to work on her son’s release if he won the election. The family, overwhelmed with joy, issued a statement expressing their gratitude for his safe return. U.S. lawmakers from both parties also celebrated the news, emphasizing the importance of bringing detained Americans back home.
Fogel’s case is part of a broader context of U.S. negotiations with Russia to free American detainees. He had remained in custody while other high-profile Americans were released, which had deeply affected him. His lawyer, Sasha Phillips, suggested that Fogel’s detention was politically motivated, as Russia sought leverage in diplomatic tensions with the United States.
Fogel’s family is now preparing for an emotional reunion, with his 95-year-old mother eagerly awaiting his return to Pennsylvania. She shared that Fogel had called her from the airport, bringing her the good news with his usual Italian greeting, signaling his long-awaited journey home.
