Marc Fogel, an American teacher who spent over three years in Russian detention for possessing a small quantity of medical cannabis, has returned to the United States after diplomatic negotiations secured his release.
Fogel, 63, was sentenced to 14 years in prison in Russia for carrying 17 grams of medical cannabis, prescribed in the US for back pain but illegal under Russian law. His detention had drawn international concern, with human rights advocates and lawmakers calling for his release.
His arrival on US soil late Tuesday night was marked by a brief meeting with President Donald Trump outside the White House. Expressing gratitude, Fogel said he was “in awe” of the efforts that led to his freedom, acknowledging the diplomatic staff who played a role in securing his return.
“I want you to know that I am not a hero in this at all,” Fogel stated. “President Trump is a hero. These men that came from the diplomatic service are heroes.”
While US officials have not disclosed specific details of the negotiations, Trump described the terms of Fogel’s release as “very fair” and hinted at another prisoner release set for Wednesday.
The US government had designated Fogel as “wrongfully detained,” similar to other high-profile American citizens previously held in Russia, including WNBA star Brittney Griner, journalist Evan Gershkovich, and former Marine Paul Whelan.
Fogel’s release comes amid heightened diplomatic efforts between Washington and Moscow. National security officials suggested that his return could be a step toward broader negotiations, including talks on the ongoing war in Ukraine. “This exchange signals a good-faith effort from Russia and a move in the right direction,” said US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz.
The circumstances surrounding the deal remain unclear, with no immediate confirmation on whether concessions were made to Russia in exchange for Fogel’s release. When asked if he spoke directly to Russian President Vladimir Putin about the matter, Trump refrained from providing details, stating only, “I appreciate very much what they did in letting Marc go home.”
The US government has faced criticism for prioritizing high-profile prisoner swaps while Fogel remained detained. His family had voiced frustration as other Americans were freed, fearing he would be forgotten.
“There were times when it was extremely trying,” Fogel said about his imprisonment. “Every second, every minute, every day had a challenge.”
Legal experts and human rights advocates have pointed out that cases like Fogel’s, involving small amounts of cannabis, typically result in suspended sentences or minimal prison time under Russian law. His family’s lawyer, Sasha Phillips, alleged that Russian authorities targeted Fogel to use him as leverage in ongoing geopolitical disputes with Washington.
“They were looking for someone to detain, to hold hostage,” she said.
Photo: @WhiteHouse on X
His release was widely welcomed by US lawmakers. Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) thanked the Trump administration for its role in securing Fogel’s return, calling it “long overdue.” Representative Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.) praised the bipartisan efforts that contributed to his freedom.
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