Shared from bossip.com.
Here’s an update on everything we know about Brittney Griner’s detainment in Russia and what’s currently happening to try and get her home.
Source: Mike Mattina / Getty
Amid news updates on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine this weekend, we learned of another incident in Russia that has shocked the sports world.
After weeks in a Russian jail, news finally surfaced that two-time Olympic champion Brittney Griner was in custody on alleged drug charges. The drug charges in question relate to the Russian Federal Customs Service reportedly finding hash oil in vape pens belonging to the 31-year-old WNBA star.
Why was she there?
While Griner is a championship-winning player for the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, in the off-season, she goes over to Russia to play for the UMMC Ekaterinburg team. She has been playing in Russia for the last seven winters, making a reported $1 million per season–quadruple her WNBA salary.
How long has she been in jail in Russia?
While news only broke this weekend, it is reported she could have been in custody for almost three weeks before anyone was alerted to her whereabouts. According to Yahoo!, there is the concern with the conflicts in Russia that she could be used as a high-profile hostage.
How can you help?
You can sign the petition to help bring her home, which already has surpassed 30,000 signatures. You can also contact the US Ambassador to Russia John J. Sullivan via phone at +7 (495) 728-5000. In addition, you can contact Arizona Senators Kyrsten Sinema (202) 224-2235 and Mark Kelly (202) 224-2235.
The U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has not directly addressed the Griner situation, citing privacy concerns. Blinken did acknowledge he is aware and offered one small statement, saying the United States “is ready to provide every possible assistance, and that includes in Russia.”
Given everything going on in that part of the world, it will be difficult to bring her home, but difficult is something that can be achieved with everyone involved helping towards that goal.
Images and Article from bossip.com