US teacher Mark Fogel returns home after more than three years in detention in Russia
Washington, DC: After Moscow and Washington brokered an “exchange,” Marc Fogel, an American educator detained in Russia for more than three years, returned to the United States. US President Donald Trump welcomed Fogel to the White House as he was wrapped in an American flag, saying it was “an honor to have played a small role” in ensuring his freedom.
“I appreciate you all, and I’m thrilled to be back in our nation. CNN said that Fogel, who seemed overcome with emotion as he spoke in the Diplomatic Reception Room, remarked, “And I wish I could articulate it better.”
President Donald Trump and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff have successfully arranged an exchange for Marc Fogel, according to a statement issued Tuesday by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.
President Trump’s continued efforts to obtain the release of Americans who are incarcerated across the world were also noted in the statement.
“Today, President Donald J. Trump and his special envoy Steve Witkoff are able to announce that Mr. Witkoff is leaving Russian airspace with Marc Fogel, an American who was detained by Russia,” the White House stated in a statement issued by NSA Mike Waltz.
The transaction, which was brokered by President Trump, Steve Witkoff, and the President’s aides, is an indication that the Russians are acting in good faith and that we are making progress toward ending the awful and bloody conflict in Ukraine.
“President Trump has been successful in securing the release of Americans who have been imprisoned abroad since his inauguration, and he will continue until all Americans who are being held are brought back to the United States. “Under President Trump’s leadership, Marc Fogel will be back in America by tonight and reunited with his loved ones,” the statement said.
Fogel’s return was also confirmed by the White House on X.
The message “Marc Fogel is back!!!” was posted on X. “Promises given, promises fulfilled!”
Trump also said that another American is anticipated to be freed shortly, although he did not elaborate. Several Americans, like Ksenia Karelina and Stephen Hubbard, who have been formally acknowledged as being illegally jailed, are still being held in Russia.
“There’s good will in terms of the war” is what Trump stated when asked whether the release would mark the beginning of a peace agreement. He also commended Russian President Vladimir Putin for his participation.
“In fact, you may play a significant role in it, as it could be crucial to ending the conflict with Ukraine. And we are grateful to President Putin for his actions. CNN said, “He managed to do it for you, correct?”
