American basketball star Brittney Griner, celebrated as an Olympic and world champion, faced charges related to possession and trafficking in Russia. During proceedings in the Khimki court near Moscow, she acknowledged responsibility for the incident while criticizing the irregularities encountered while detained abroad.
Griner stated, “I did not intend to promote anything illegal, but I accept responsibility for what was found in my bags.” The hearing took place as she sat in a cell, emphasizing her use of marijuana as a pain reliever for knee problems, though she insisted it did not play a role in her competitive performance.
She admitted awareness that bringing marijuana into Russian territory was illegal, yet she attributed fatigue and haste as contributing factors.
“During the search, I did not anticipate finding this item. I had no desire to break Russian law. I was in a rush and not fully recovered from illness,” she remarked.
In her defense, the United States recommended against travel to Russia, but the team proceeded to Moscow to avoid disappointing Yekaterinburg UGMK.
Griner added, “Although I regret what happened, I accept guilt for the incident. I understand the blame, but I did not intend to hide anything.”
She also criticized the treatment by staff at Sheremétyevo airport and customs officials earlier that year. They reportedly read the documents in Russian, leaving her with no explanation or access to legal counsel before signing.
Additional concerns were raised when her mobile device was seized and her rights were not read to her, followed by handcuffing.
The trial resumed with plans to question an expert who examined the marijuana found in her suitcases.
The United States Department of State condemned the arrest, highlighting that Griner was prescribed cannabis for medical use.
Earlier in the month, Griner wrote a letter to the U.S. president expressing fear about remaining in Russia and urging help to secure the freedom of other Americans detained abroad.
White House officials indicated that the president personally pursued the case to secure her release.
The 31-year-old athlete, a two-time Olympic and world champion for the United States, was detained at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport on February 17 after customs officers found cannabis oil in her luggage.
Her subsequent arrest on drug-related and smuggling charges kept her in custody since that day.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov rejected any suggestion that the proceedings against Griner carried a political motive.
Speculation circulated about possible negotiations for a prisoner exchange involving a Russian arms dealer, though public reports varied on potential candidates.
Meanwhile, international observers noted that the case remains part of broader tensions between Russia and the United States, with occasional chatter about how such cases influence diplomatic and consular interactions.
There has been ongoing debate about future steps, including potential prisoner exchanges or alternative diplomatic solutions, as both nations navigate this high-profile legal matter amidst broader geopolitical dynamics.