The US on Friday demanded that Russia grant consular access to WNBA star Britney Greener, who has been in custody there since mid-February on suspicion of drug possession.
In a witty statement, the State Department mentioned Griner’s name for the first time since her conclusion, in contrast to the earlier low-key approach aimed at defusing tensions amid Russia’s war in Ukraine.
“We are actively involved in this case and are in frequent contact with Britney Griner’s legal team. We urge the Russian government to grant consular access to all US citizens detained in Russia, including those in pre-trial detention like Britney Greener,” the statement said.
“We have repeatedly requested consular access to these detainees, and we have been constantly denied access,” the department added.
Griner, 31, who plays professionally in Russia during the off-season, was arrested after officials said they found hash oil in her vape cartridge at a Moscow airport.
Her pre-trial detention was extended until Thursday, May 19, according to Russian state media.
CCTV footage shows WNBA star Brittney Griner before being arrested at Sheremetyevo Airport in Moscow. Federal Customs Service of Russia
Despite the ordeal, Phoenix Mercury and the two-time Olympian are reportedly in good spirits, according to a public watchdog that visits prisons outside of Russia.
“She is in a normal physical condition, she is holding up normally, I would even say, quite calm and not anxious,” says Ekaterina Kalugina.
Greiner has often met with her lawyers but has not yet met with US diplomats, said Kalugina, whose organization positions itself as independent but rarely clashes with the Kremlin on important issues.
The State Department confirmed that it is in “contact with Britney Griner’s legal team.” Kevin S. Cox/Getty Images
The State Department is calling for “consular access” with WNBA player Britney Greener. Barry Gossage/NBAE via Getty Images
Griner faces 10 years in prison if found guilty of using marijuana.
U.S. calls for Russia to release Marine veteran Trevor Reed and Michigan corporate security chief Paul Whelan, charged with assault and espionage, respectively, continue to fall on deaf ears.
With mail wires