Know why WNBA Brittney Griner got arrested in Russia and the aftermath with her currently being kept captive in the country
The Phoenix Mercury’s Brittney Griner of the WNBA league was arrested in Russia which outraged huge media headlines.
Explained Why Was Brittney Griner Arrested In Russia And What Will Happen To Her
The double Olympic medalist was arrested on drug charges at Moscow International Airport in Russia last month. Vape cartridges were specified as containing oil derived from cannabis by the Russian authorities who oversaw her custody immediately.
The player received vast support from her fans and WNBA players, expressing concern towards the player’s wellbeing and safe return to her country.
Russia meanwhile, released the first photo of the American basketball player, after her detention.
Brittney Griner’s mugshot released by Russia.
She’s facing 10 years after being arrested in a Russian airport for vape cartridges. pic.twitter.com/6S8MR4tX0H
— My Mixtapez (@mymixtapez) March 8, 2022
What is the concern?
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the US State Department issued a do not travel advisory to Russia.
It is a huge concern for her and the country that Russia might use the detention for political purposes after being boycotted by the countries following the Russia-Ukraine military crisis.
Many countries have even banned the athletes of Russia including the FIFA, UEFA, IOC had asked to ban athletes of Russia on international conditions. A lot of players belonging to Ukraine and Russia we’re out of the country except Brittney, WNBA had confirmed earlier.
What is the aftermath?
Everyone is aware of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and how other countries have reacted to Russia and Russia to support Ukraine. Leaving that, the detention has been done on something legal which can’t be justified.
“We are aware of the situation with Brittney Griner in Russia and are in close contact with her, her legal representation in Russia, her family, her teams, and the WNBA and NBA. As this is an ongoing legal matter, we are not able to comment further on the specifics of her case but can confirm that as we work to get her home, her mental and physical health remain our primary concern,” said Brittney’s agent Lindsay Kagawa Colas, as reported by AP.
While the investigations are still ongoing, the diplomatic relationships among both countries have worsened and it won’t be very easy for Brittney to be out of the country very soon.
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