The USA managed to finally secure the release of WNBA star Brittney Griner very recently. It took 10 months and tireless efforts from various individuals. That includes the likes of US president Joe Biden as well. He announced on December 8th that the Phoenix Mercury center would be returning home to the USA.
Moments ago I spoke to Brittney Griner.
She is safe.
She is on a plane.
She is on her way home. pic.twitter.com/FmHgfzrcDT— President Biden (@POTUS) December 8, 2022
Griner was detained by Russian officials at an airport back in February. They charged her with crimes including possession of cannabis after they found vape cartridges with weed in her luggage. That was where it all started for Griner. All of it didn’t return to normal even after her release. Many raised the question of Paul Whelan’s release as well, which Brittney’s wife, Cherelle, responded to.
Amid all this, Maria Blagovolina, Brittney‘s lawyer has come out with some details about her client’s life in prison. There is no doubt in saying Maria played a pivotal role in helping secure Brittney’s release.
Who is Maria Blagovolina?
Maria Blagovolina is a Russian lawyer who has been practicing the same for about 20 years. Her area of expertise is white-collar cases. For those who don’t know, Maria focuses on representing clients who have committed non-violent and financially motivated crimes. This certainly makes sense if we think about how she came to represent Brittney Griner as well.
Recently, she revealed how Griner spent her time in a Russian prison. She told ESPN, “She had honestly no complaints. Things could have been much worse.” Many, including Cherelle, were understandably worried for Brittney’s safety when news of her arrest broke out. However, it looks like they had no reason to worry after all. Maria claims that Griner was comfortable when she was detained in the European country.
Brittney Griner says she’s happy to be released in footage from plane: pic.twitter.com/UXvFDRUXnX
— philip lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) December 8, 2022
The USA managed to secure her release after agreeing with Russia to send arms dealer Viktor Bout the other way. Russian and American officials completed the swap in the UAE just over a day ago. Maria also revealed why Brittney got rid of her iconic dreadlocks