American Teacher Sentenced in Russia Needs Help

In a recent prisoner swap with Russia, four high-profile Americans have returned to the United States, a development that has been met with relief. Among those involved is Marc Fogel, who is currently serving a 14-year sentence in a Russian penal colony for drug smuggling and possession. His health is reportedly deteriorating, prompting calls for the U.S. government to take action on his behalf. Despite the similarities in their cases, the U.S. has not officially classified Fogel as wrongfully detained, a designation it quickly granted to Brittney Griner following her arrest for the same offense. This inconsistency has raised questions about the treatment of American detainees abroad and the criteria used by the State Department in such cases. The situation is particularly poignant for those connected to Fogel, as his wife, Jane, was a science teacher at the Anglo-American School in Moscow, where the author attended in 2012. This personal connection underscores the urgency of advocating for Fogel's release and the need for the U.S. to prioritize the safe return of all Americans wrongfully detained overseas. As the U.S. government navigates these complex diplomatic waters, it is crucial that it formally recognizes Fogel's wrongful detention, similar to the actions taken in Griner's case. The ongoing plight of other Americans, including those like Kai, who remains imprisoned in China, further emphasizes the need for a consistent and robust approach to securing the freedom of U.S. citizens abroad.