WNBA star and former political prisoner Brittney Griner has called on the Biden administration to help free American reporter Evan Gershkovich following his detainment in Russia.
“Our hearts are filled with great concern for Evan Gershkovitch and his family since Van’s detainment in Russia,” reads a statement that was signed by both Griner and her wife Cherelle Griner. “We must do everything in our power to bring him and all Americans home. We are grateful for President Biden and his administration’s deep commitment to rescue Americans. We celebrate their recent successful efforts to bring home Jeff Woodke and Paul Rusesabagina.”
Griner’s statement comes a week after Russian security officials arrested the Wall Street Journal reporter, age 31, on espionage charges. His arrest comes during a particularly tense time for U.S. and Russia relations, as President Vladimir Putin continues to wage war in Ukraine. The arrest marks the first time since the Cold War that a U.S. journalist has been arrested on espionage charges in Russia.
“Every American who is taken is ours to fight for and every American returned is a win for us all,” the statement continues. “That is why we call on all of our supporters to both celebrate the wins and encourage the administration to continue to use every tool possible to bring Evan and all wrongfully detained Americans home.”
President Joe Biden has already called on Russia to release the journalist and shared a message with reporters on Friday. “Let him go,” he said. Gershkovich was arrested in Ekaterinburg last week and was flown to Moscow the following day. The Wall Street Journal has denied accusations leveled against him, while Vice President Kamala Harris said she was “deeply concerned” by the news.
Griner was arrested on drug smuggling charges in Russia in February 2022 and was eventually freed from Russian custody by December as part of a prisoner exchange with the United States.
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