**American Man Released from Russian Prison**
A 63-year-old American man, Marc Fogel, has been released from a Russian prison and has returned to the US.
Fogel was arrested in Russia in 2021 for carrying a small amount of medical marijuana. He was sentenced to 14 years in prison.
The US government did not classify him as wrongfully detained until December 2024.
**Family Relieved**
Fogel’s sister, Anne Fogel, said she is “greatly relieved” that her brother is free. She had been pushing the previous Biden administration to secure his release but was left disappointed when he was not included in prisoner exchanges.
**Exchange with Russia**
Fogel’s release was negotiated as part of an exchange between the US and Russia. The US did not comment on whether someone was released from prison in return for Fogel.
US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz said that Fogel’s release is a “show of good faith” from Russia and a sign that the two countries are moving towards ending the war in Ukraine.
**Meeting with Trump**
Fogel is set to meet President Donald Trump at the White House later. The White House posted on social media, saying: “PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT!” with a picture of Fogel.
**Family Statement**
Fogel’s family released a statement, saying: “This has been the darkest and most painful period of our lives, but today, we begin to heal.”
They also thanked Trump for his role in securing Fogel’s release.