The Trump administration announced Tuesday that Marc Fogel, an American teacher, is returning to the United States after being held in Russia.
National Security Adviser Mike Waltz stated that President Trump and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff secured Fogel’s release from Russian custody, adding that this exchange demonstrates goodwill from Russia and progress toward resolving the conflict in Ukraine.
Fogel, a 63-year-old history teacher from Pennsylvania, had been serving a 14-year prison sentence for drug possession. His family maintained the drugs were medically prescribed marijuana. The U.S. government had designated him as wrongfully detained.
For nine years prior to his arrest in August 2021, Fogel taught at the Anglo-American School in Moscow.
Fogel’s mother, Malphine, expressed immense relief at his release, stating he called her from a Moscow airport en route to Washington, D.C. She described the release as a complete surprise.
Fogel’s relatives shared their overwhelming gratitude and relief, describing the ordeal as the most painful period of their lives but looking forward to the future with renewed hope.
Waltz emphasized President Trump’s commitment to securing the release of all detained Americans, highlighting this success as part of a broader effort.
Senator John Fetterman lauded Fogel’s return and commended the Trump administration’s efforts.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro also welcomed Fogel home on X, thanking those involved in securing his release and acknowledging the unwavering support of Fogel’s family.
Former CIA station chief Dan Hoffman deemed Fogel’s release a significant foreign policy achievement, praising Witkoff’s involvement despite his other responsibilities.
Fogel’s release occurred separately from a larger prisoner exchange in August 2024 involving other Americans.
Fogel’s mother reported that he never complained about his detention conditions beyond the detention itself.
Fogel graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1984 and dedicated 36 years to teaching history at schools attended by children of U.S. diplomats in various countries.
Malphine Fogel recounted a meeting with President Trump before a rally in Butler, Pa., where he reportedly promised to secure her son’s release, a promise she believes he fulfilled.
She anticipates Fogel’s emotional return to the United States.
‘ Landon Mion and