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This week has been the start of WNBA star Brittney Griner’s trial in Russia for bringing two small cannabis vape cartridges with her into their country. She faces a potential 10 years in prison.
Yesterday, according to Reuters, she entered her plea of guilty, and said, “but there was no intent. I didn’t want to break the law.” And she also added, "I'd like to give my testimony later. I need time to prepare.” Earlier this week on Independence day, President Joe Biden received a handwritten letter from Griner asking him to help her and other American detainees, writing, “Please do all you can to bring us home.” In response, President Biden called Griner’s wife on Wednesday to assure her that the U.S. was doing all that it could to secure the her release. 99% of all Russian cases end in a guilty verdict. Even those very few which are aquited can be overturned. In addition to this fact, the Russian government has stated they wouldn’t even begin to consider discussions over releasing Griner or potentially doing a prisoner swap, until her trial is settled. It’s possible that her guilty plea was a way to expedite the trial so that neogtiations can begin. Russia has taken a hard stance against any form of cannabis legalization. They opposed the UN reforming cannabis policy, they have condemed Canada for legalizing it nationwide, and they have said North America’s efforts to legalize are, “of serious concern for us.” The US has legitimate concerns, though, that a prisoner swap could lead to more American’s being seized by Russia on trumped up charges. A top Russian government spokesperson alluded to the fact that the United States position on this matter is rather hypocritical, considering cannabis is still illegal at the federal level. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexei Zaitsev said, “arguments about the innocent nature of Griner’s addiction, which, by the way, is punishable in some U.S. states, are inappropriate in this case.” Comments are closed.
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