WNBA star Brittney Griner recently opened up about her harrowing experience being held in a Russian prison as a hostage, acknowledging that she believed Russian President Vladimir Putin would exploit her situation for his own benefit. Griner was detained in Russia from February to December 2022 after authorities found cannabis oil in her luggage at a Moscow airport.
During an interview with MSNBC’s Joy Reid, Griner discussed a chapter in her new book, “Coming Home,” titled “Putin’s Pawn,” revealing how she was aware of the Kremlin’s attempts to manipulate her situation. She recounted how she recognized the special treatment she was receiving compared to other prisoners, with high-profile figures frequently present at the prison.
Griner described feeling intense fear and uncertainty during her time in captivity, facing the prospect of up to nine years in prison for the drug-related charges. Fortunately, she was released in December 2022 as part of a prisoner exchange between the US and Russia, with the Biden administration freeing a convicted Russian arms dealer in return for Griner’s freedom.
Griner’s book detailing her ordeal as a hostage in Russia was published recently, shedding light on her challenging journey and the obstacles she faced during her time in captivity.
