Brittney Griner writes letter to Joe Biden pleading for freedom from Russia
Brittney Griner has been detained in Russia since 17 February after Russian authorities claimed to have found vape cartridges containing cannabis oil in her luggage.
The openly gay Olympic gold medallist and player for Phoenix Mercury is currently on trial and faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
Lindsay Kagawa Colas, Griner’s agent, confirmed that a handwritten letter from the basketball player was delivered to the White House on Monday (4 July) and that Biden has read it.
Excerpts from the letter read: “… As I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey, or any accomplishments, I’m terrified I might be here forever. “On the 4th of July, our family normally honors the service of those who fought for our freedom, including my father who is a Vietnam War Veteran. “It hurts thinking about how I usually celebrate this day because freedom means something completely different to me this year.” Griner implored Biden to do everything in his power to free her and allow her to return home, “Please do all you can to bring us home.
