American Detained in Russia for Alleged Drug Smuggling After Recent Prisoner Swap

U.S. citizen Kalob Wayne Byers faces up to 10 years in prison after being caught with cannabis-laced marmalade at a Moscow airport.

Kalob Wayne Byers, a 28-year-old U.S. citizen, was detained at Moscow's Vnukovo Airport on February 7 after customs officials found cannabis-laced marmalade in his luggage.
Russian authorities have charged Byers with drug smuggling, which carries a potential prison sentence of 5 to 10 years and a fine of up to 1 million rubles (approximately $11,000).
The arrest occurred just days after a high-profile prisoner swap between the U.S. and Russia, which saw the release of American teacher Marc Fogel in exchange for Russian cryptocurrency expert Alexander Vinnik.
The U.S. State Department has confirmed awareness of the reports but has not provided additional comments on the case.
Analysts suggest the arrest could be used by Russia as leverage in future negotiations, highlighting ongoing tensions in U.S.-Russia relations despite recent diplomatic efforts.