Trump Secures Release of American Teacher Marc Fogel from Russian Prison

The prisoner swap, involving a Russian money-launderer, signals potential diplomatic shifts as Trump pursues peace talks with Russia and Ukraine.

Marc Fogel, a U.S. teacher imprisoned in Russia for marijuana possession, has been released following negotiations led by the Trump administration.
The exchange involved Alexander Vinnik, a Russian convicted of money laundering in the U.S., who was returned to Russia as part of the deal.
Trump's efforts included direct involvement from his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, and coordination with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The release is seen as a potential step toward easing tensions with Russia and advancing Trump's proposed peace framework for the Ukraine conflict.
Fogel's family criticized the Biden administration for inaction, contrasting it with Trump's swift resolution within weeks of taking office.