News

Brittney Griner-Viktor Bout exchange leaves former U.S. Marine in Russia

Published

2 years ago

December 9, 2022

Former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan left behind by Biden administration during two separate prisoner exchanges with Kremlin

The United States government on Thursday completed a prisoner exchange with Russia after months of negotiations that resulted in the release of Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout for American women’s basketball athlete Brittney Griner.

The professional athlete was arrested in Russia in February 2022 after airport officials discovered cannabis oil in her vape cartridges.

Meanwhile, Bout is known as the ‘Merchant of Death’ and many critics say he is still a very dangerous man and was too great a prize to give Russia.

Additionally, former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan has been left behind by the Biden administration for a second time. Initially, the Biden administration was working to release both Griner and Whelan for the Bout who has served 11 years of a 25-year conviction.

But, the Kremlin ultimately handed the U.S. the choice of only Griner’s return or no deal at all.

In Russian custody for nearly four years, Whelan was convicted on charges of espionage and spying for the U.S. government. The 52-year-old was sentenced to 16 years in prison and remains imprisoned at a labor camp.

Both Whelan and the U.S. deny the charges.

U.S. President Joe Biden was asked about why Whelan was left behind. He said, “

Whelan’s brother told media outlets he is hopeful the Biden administration will also secure the release of his brother soon.

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Veronica Dudo

Veronica Dudo is the U.S. Correspondent for Ticker News covering America’s biggest headlines. As an Emmy® Award nominated global journalist, Veronica has traveled across the country and around the world reporting on historical events that connect all citizens. Lauded as an award-winning international journalist, Veronica has executed stellar news coverage for NBC News, CBS News, The Hill, ME-TV Network and AOL. Her stories have highlighted a plethora of topics ranging from breaking news and politics to economic affairs across the USA, European Union, and Asia; cultural affairs; globalization; governance; education; and sustainability.

Leaders

Harris & Oprah unite for a virtual campaign rally

Published

18 hours ago

September 20, 2024

ticker NEWS

Kamala Harris sat down with Oprah Winfrey for a virtual rally, drawing over 200,000 viewers.

A star-studded virtual event hosted by Oprah Winfrey Thursday night to build enthusiasm for Kamala Harris’ campaign was marked by teary moments and celebrity endorsements, drawing hundreds of thousands of viewers across social media.

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Leaders

Visitor industry embraces tech to transform venue exploration

Published

23 hours ago

September 20, 2024

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Pladia, a forward-thinking digital platform, is transforming how visitors engage with spaces by integrating advanced technology to create seamless, interactive experiences.

The visitor industry is embracing digital technology to elevate guest experiences through enhanced navigation and personalised journeys.

Smart solutions such as guides, real-time data, and interactive tools are transforming how people explore spaces, offering improved accessibility and engagement.

As industries such as tourism, events, and hospitality embrace these innovations, they are poised to create more connected, seamless visitor journeys that bridge the gap between the physical and digital realms.

Andi Mastrosavas, Chief Executive of the world-first Experience Design software Pladia, joins to share their crucial insights into the visitor industry. #featured