US, Russia exchange basketball star Brittney Griner for notorious arms dealer Viktor Bout, read details

President Joe Biden stated that Brittney Griner is fine and she is coming back home on a plane from the United Arab Emirates.

Russian media reported that Bout, also known as the "Merchant of death," has returned to Moscow.

The Biden administration proposed a prisoner exchange in July, aware Moscow had long sought Bout's release.


Two private aircraft flew the pair from Moscow and Washington to Abu Dhabi airport for the intricate swap and then flew them back home.

Speaking in the Oval Office, Brittney Griner's wife Cherelle Griner expressed her gratitude and thanked Biden for his administrative efforts in releasing the victim. She also said that she is overwhelmed with emotions.


A joint Saudi-UAE statement claims that UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman were instrumental in the mediation efforts.

When negotiations began to secure Griner's release during the summer, the US made clear it wanted ex-marine Paul Whelan to be included in an exchange.

The lawyer for Bout, Alexei Tarasov, claimed on Russian TV that the US has consistently sought the liberation of two of its citizens. The foreign ministry of Russia bemoaned the fact that Washington adamantly rejects engaging in negotiations.

President Biden finally commuted Bout’s 25-year prison term, in a direct swap for Griner.

FAQs:

1. Who is the wife of Britney Griner?
   Cherelle Griner is the wife of Britney Griner.
2. For how long was Victor Bout in Jail?
   Victor Bout was in jail for 12 years.
3. Victor Bout was swapped with whom?
   Victor Bout was swapped with Britney Griner.