Secretary of State Marco Rubio attributed the release of Marc Fogel, an American detained in Russia since 2021, to the strength of the Trump presidency during a Tuesday appearance on “Hannity.”

Rubio credited the release to President Trump, highlighting the return of ten Americans from overseas detention in three weeks as an “extraordinary achievement” under a strong president.

He contrasted this with what he characterized as a lack of prioritization of Fogel’s case under the Biden administration, emphasizing the joyous occasion for Fogel and his family.

Fogel, a history teacher at the Anglo-American School in Moscow, served a 14-year sentence for possessing medically prescribed marijuana, according to his family. Following his release and return to the U.S., he met with Trump, praising him as a “hero” for his role in securing his freedom. His family similarly expressed gratitude for Trump’s leadership.

Responding to questions about concessions made in Fogel’s release, Trump indicated minimal concessions were given.

Rubio stressed the significance of a strong president in navigating international relations, emphasizing that strong leaders respect strength and that Trump’s actions demonstrated this strength, delivering on campaign promises.

Rubio suggested this approach could yield results in other foreign policy challenges, including the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas conflict.

He linked Fogel’s release to the president’s decisive nature, arguing that Trump’s actions, as opposed to mere rhetoric, inspire confidence and respect among world leaders. This strength, Rubio believes, translates to the potential for resolving global conflicts.