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The two-time Olympic gold medalist, 32, was arrested in February while trying to leave Russia, where she played basketball in the WNBA offseason.
He testified in court that he used the cannabis oil he was prescribed to treat pain from a sports injury, but had forgotten that the cartridge was in his suitcase when he hurriedly packed it for a trip.
US diplomats are under intense pressure to negotiate a prisoner swap for Griner and Paul Whelan, who was arrested in 2018 and accused of being a spy.
Speaking to reporters at the White House after Tuesday’s midterm elections, President Joe Biden said there had been some discussions to try to secure Griner’s release.
“I hope that now that the election is over, there will be a willingness to negotiate more specifically with us,” Biden said. “I decided to get him home and get him home safely.”
Advocates say America remains a political pawn by the Kremlin amid fallout from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“We are grateful for everyone’s support, and hope that after nearly nine months in detention, BG and all Americans wrongfully detained will be granted mercy and return to their families for the holidays,” Colas said.
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