Unexpected Release: Marc Fogel Freed from Russian Prison

Marc Fogel, an American schoolteacher, was unexpectedly released from Russian detention following U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff's visit to Moscow. Former President Donald Trump announced the release amidst efforts to end the Ukraine war. Fogel had served time for drug charges and is now returning to the U.S.

In a surprising turn of events, Marc Fogel, an American schoolteacher detained in Russia since August 2021, has been released. The release follows an unannounced visit to Moscow by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff. U.S. President Donald Trump shared the news, highlighting the gesture as a step towards mending relations with Moscow.

Fogel, who had been sentenced to 14 years for drug smuggling at a Moscow airport, will return to the U.S. and receive a White House welcome. His family expressed immense relief at his return. The move comes as Trump attempts to broker peace and bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

While Trump was sparse on details regarding the negotiation, he expressed hope that the release could mark the start of improved U.S.-Russia relations. Fogel's release adds to the complex narrative of international diplomacy in which several prisoners have been exchanged between Russia and Western countries.

(With inputs from agencies.)