WNBA star Brittney Griner was sentenced to nine years in prison Thursday (August 4) at the conclusion of her trial in Russia after bringing cannabis into the country in February. Judge Anna Sotnikova said she had found that Griner intentionally broke the law, and added that her time served would count toward her sentence.
President Joe Biden reacted to the news of Griner's conviction, stating, "Today, American citizen Brittney Griner received a prison sentence that is one more reminder of what the world already knew: Russia is wrongfully detaining Brittney. It's unacceptable, and I call on Russia to release her immediately so she can be with her wife, loved ones, friends, and teammates."
US National Security Council Director for Strategic Communications John Kirby also urged Russia to consider the proposal for a prisoner swap with the Russians. Kirby stated, "We urge the Russians, again, to seriously consider that proposal, to act on it. And let’s get these two Americans home where they belong."
