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American Teacher Marc Fogel Returns Home After Years in Russian Detention

Marc Fogel, an American educator detained in Russia since 2021, steps off a plane at Joint Base Andrews following his release, secured through U.S. negotiations.

Davy
  • Published in News
American Teacher Marc Fogel Returns Home After Years in Russian Detention

After more than three years in Russian detention, American teacher Marc Fogel is finally back on U.S. soil. Fogel, who was arrested in Moscow in 2021 and sentenced to 14 years in prison, arrived late Tuesday night at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. His return was the result of a high-stakes diplomatic negotiation, facilitated by President Donald Trump and his administration.

The White House shared images of a visibly relieved Fogel, stepping off the plane alongside White House national security adviser Michael Waltz and former Trump administration official Adam Boehler. His arrival marked the end of a prolonged ordeal that had drawn significant attention and advocacy from U.S. officials, lawmakers, and his family.

Shortly after landing, Fogel was taken to the White House, where he was greeted by President Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Speaking to reporters in the Diplomatic Reception Room, Fogel described his release as nothing short of miraculous.

"I feel like the luckiest man on Earth right now," he said, adding that President Trump’s intervention made all the difference in securing his freedom.

President Trump greets former detainee Marc Fogel as he arrives at the White House in Washington, D.C., on Feb. 11, 2025. Fogel, a U.S. teacher detained in Russia since 2021 on drugs charges, was released Feb. 11 after an "exchange" with Moscow, the White House said.

While the details of the negotiation remain undisclosed, administration officials described the exchange as "fair and reasonable." The White House also hinted that another high-profile detainee could soon be released, further signaling ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Fogel’s return highlights growing tensions and strategic diplomacy between the U.S. and Russia, particularly as discussions continue around American citizens still detained abroad. His case had previously been overlooked in prisoner swaps, making this release a long-awaited victory for his family and supporters.

Davy