It is believed Britney Griner was arrested after arriving at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport on a flight from New York in late February.
US State Department speaks out
The US State Department says it is closely following the case. Britney Griner’s legal team is updating the department. But Moscow is not allowing her consular access.
In the past, consular access was provided for all Americans in detention in Russia. And since the Russian invasion of Ukraine arrested Americans are no longer allowed what is considered due process under international law.
“We have repeatedly asked for consular access to these detainees and have consistently been denied access. Russia must abide by its legal obligations and allow us to provide consular services for U.S. citizens detained in Russia,” the State Department spokesperson said.
“We take our responsibility to assist U.S. citizens seriously, and we will continue to press for fair and transparent treatment for all U.S. citizens when they are subject to legal processes overseas.”
Britney Griner hostage in Russia
For seven years during the WNBA offseason, the 6′ 9″ Griner has been playing in Russia. She is a star player for the Russian team UMMC Ekaterinburg. And last played for them on January 29th.
