The Kremlin has finally provided a positive response to the prison swap deal offered by the State Department to secure the release of WNBA star Brittney Griner. The latest stance from the Russian authorities could be a significant plot twist for Griner, who has been stuck in Russia for nine months. Moreover, Russia has opened up about its interest in getting Viktor Bout released from America in exchange for BG and former US marine Paul Whelan.

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken proposed a prisoner swap deal in July, even before Brittney Griner‘s conviction in August. However, the Kremlin remained silent on the proposal for months. However, they’ve finally shared their interest recently.

The recent statement from Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia, Sergei Ryabkov, could be a big ray of hope for Griner. She was recently transferred to a remote penal colony in Yavas, Mordovia, 310 miles southeast of Moscow.

Russia’s interest in prisoner swap is great news for Brittney Griner

Russia has finally shared some positive thoughts about its interests in a possible prisoner swap deal. Mr. Ryabkov stated on November 18 that the prospect of a swap has ‘strengthened.’ He also revealed that the negotiations are ongoing. However, the two countries are yet to reach an agreement.

Moreover, the Russian official suggested Russia’s interest in the release of convicted arms dealer Viktor Bout. The convicted Russian citizen is serving a 25-year sentence in the US.

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Mr. Ryabkov said, “It is undeniable that Viktor Bout is among those who are being discussed [for exchange] and we certainly count on a positive result.”

The foreign official claimed that Bout had been ‘persecuted’ in the US. He wished the former Soviet air force officer the ‘firmness of will and spirit’.

Thus, Russia’s interest in Viktor Bout’s release could play in the hands of Brittney Griner and Whelan. The Biden Administration would hope that the two countries reach a deal soon.

Who is Viktor Bout?

Viktor Bout is a former Russian defense official. He was extradited to the US from Thailand in 2010 following a sting operation by the DEA. Bout infamously goes by the name of ‘Merchant of Death’. He is infamous as one of the most notorious arms dealers in the world. 

Bout had received a 25-year prison sentence under conspiracy charges to kill US officials. He was convicted for providing anti-craft missiles and helping a terrorist organization. 

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Russia has finally shown interest in exchanging Bout for the WNBA star Brittney Griner. However, the Biden Administration is also pushing for the release of Paul Whelan. Thus, it might take a while for Griner to finally come home.

What is your opinion on a prisoner swap deal? Let us know in the comments below.