A prominent attorney reports a downturn in the health of Viktor Bout, the Russian businessperson serving a lengthy U.S. prison sentence. The attorney states that Bout is contending with a bacterial infection and appears to be in clear, ongoing decline. The defense team and the Russian Embassy in Washington have pressed American authorities to ensure Bout receives the medical attention his condition requires, with TASS providing coverage of the situation.
The lawyer notes that the U.S. government, managed through the Bureau of Prisons under the Department of Justice, has not yet laid out a formal plan to address Bout’s illness. He stresses that Bout and his representatives seek a formal medical evaluation by a qualified physician who can accurately diagnose the condition and prescribe an appropriate course of treatment. The delay in delivering medical care has stretched over several weeks, according to the attorney, despite repeated and urgent requests.
The attorney explains that the initial health issue began several months ago. In the ensuing weeks, Bout’s health has continued to worsen, with a bacterial infection posing a threat to his eyesight. Family members of Bout, who received a 25-year sentence in the United States, had previously voiced fears for his life as his health deteriorated quickly.
This ongoing concern draws attention to broader questions about medical care within U.S. correctional facilities and the treatment of foreign nationals who are detained there. Advocates emphasize the need for timely medical evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and access to effective treatment to prevent further escalation of serious health problems. The case also underscores ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure medical support for Bout, illustrating the friction that can exist between international legal processes and the standards of care available to detainees in the United States. In reporting on the matter, TASS highlights the international dimension of the health crisis and the requests for prompt medical intervention on Bout’s behalf.