Marc Fogel Still Detained in Russia as Others Are Released

Anne Fogel stands outside the U.S. Capitol, visibly exhausted and anxious about her brother, Marc Fogel. Marc has been stuck in a Russian prison since August 2021, serving a hefty 14-year sentence for having prescribed marijuana to help with his chronic back pain.

On the day of a recent prisoner swap that saw Americans Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan, and several others being released, Marc’s family hoped he would be included. Anne said Marc found out about the swap through Russian television and was devastated to learn he was left behind.

“He’s undone,” Anne expressed, her voice heavy with emotion. The swap has left her family feeling “heartbroken and outraged” as they feel the U.S. government has let Marc down.

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan assured reporters that the Biden administration is actively working on Marc’s release, even though he didn’t make it onto the list of freed prisoners this time. Anne Fogel shares that her family has not had direct communication from President Joe Biden regarding Marc’s situation, which adds to their frustration.

Senators and Representatives from Pennsylvania have joined forces, urging the Biden administration to focus on Marc’s release. Senators Bob Casey and John Fetterman, along with U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly, Chris Deluzio, and Guy Reschenthaler, all called for his name to be part of any swap discussions.

Deluzio shared his disappointment and sadness upon hearing that Marc was left behind, stressing the hurt it brings to the community and to Marc’s family. Biden reiterated his commitment to work on the release of every American wrongfully detained globally, referencing that over 70 Americans have been brought home since he took office.

When asked about Marc, Biden promised, “We’re not giving up on that,” though he didn’t provide any further information to avoid complicating the situation.

Casey has long been advocating for Marc’s release, pushing the administration to prioritize his case just like they have with other high-profile detainees. He insists that although Marc may not be front-page news, he is equally deserving of being brought home.

Despite her mother, Malphine, being 95 years old and worried she might never see her son again, Anne mentioned that her mother’s spirit remains strong. She continues to fight for her brother’s release, noting, “My mom is hanging on to see her son. And my sister and I have to do everything possible to make that happen.”