WNBA star Brittney Griner reveals the depths of her despair during her 10-month incarceration in Russia, including suicidal thoughts, a forced letter to President Putin, and the bitter reality of leaving behind fellow detainee Paul Whelan.
WNBA star Brittney Griner has shed light on the harrowing experience she endured during her 10-month detention in Russia, including suicidal thoughts, forced communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the disappointment of leaving behind another American detainee.
In an interview with ABC News' Robin Roberts, Griner shared the depths of her despair in the early days of her arrest for alleged drug smuggling charges. "I wanted to take my life more than once in the first weeks," she confessed, revealing her desperate desire to escape the harsh conditions of the Russian prison system. "I felt like leaving here so badly."
Griner's account of her forced letter-writing to Putin is particularly disturbing. "They made me write this letter," she said of the communication in Russian. "I had to ask for forgiveness and thanks from their so-called great leader. I didn't want to do it, but at the same time, I wanted to come home."
Despite her eventual release in a prisoner exchange with convicted Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout, Griner's pain was compounded by the realization that Paul Whelan, another American detained in Russia, was not included in the deal. "I walked on and didn't see him, maybe he's next. Maybe they will bring him next," she said, her voice heavy with disappointment. "They closed the door, and I was like, are you serious? You're not going to let this man come home now."
Griner's testimony highlights the mental and emotional toll of prolonged detention, particularly for foreign nationals who find themselves isolated and vulnerable in a foreign prison system. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of international diplomacy and the urgent need to secure the release of all innocent Americans held captive abroad.
Despite the horrors she endured, Griner has returned to her basketball career with the Phoenix Mercury. Her resilience and determination have become an inspiration to many, both on and off the court. Her story continues to raise awareness about the challenges and injustices faced by those unjustly detained.
