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In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, a prisoner exchange between the United States and Russia has resulted in the return of American teacher Marc Fogel, who had been detained in Russia for three and a half years on marijuana-related charges. The exchange involved Russian national Alexander Vinnik, who was previously held in U.S. custody.
This brings tears to my eyes. Donald Trump is out in the snow making sure he meets Marc Fogel ❤️
Donald Trump rescued Marc Fogel from Russia
This is the type of Leader Trump is 🙏 pic.twitter.com/OXrh0EUgbU
— MAGA Voice (@MAGAVoice) February 12, 2025
A senior administration official disclosed to The Post that former President Trump facilitated the prisoner exchange. Vinnik, who had been in custody since his 2017 arrest in Greece and subsequent extradition to the United States, faced charges related to operating the digital currency exchange platform BTC-e and allegations of money laundering through the platform.
Following his release and return to American soil on Tuesday evening, Fogel visited the White House where he expressed his gratitude to Trump, referring to the former president as a “hero” for orchestrating his freedom.
🚨 FREED PRISONER MARC FOGEL: "PRESIDENT TRUMP IS A HERO!"
After Biden abandoned him for SEVERAL YEARS in Russia, President Trump has brought US teacher Marc Fogel back.
Within THREE WEEKS of inauguration day.
Fighting back tears, Fogel said "Thank you, President Trump. I'm in… pic.twitter.com/OEljvlveqd
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) February 12, 2025
The successful prisoner swap marks the end of Fogel’s lengthy detention in Russia and demonstrates the continued diplomatic efforts to secure the release of Americans held abroad.
