The Brittney Griner situation took a very wild and unexpected twist this week when former NBA star Dennis Rodman told reporters that he “got permission” to go to Russia and negotiate for Griner’s release as her imprisonment continues. But despite Rodman’s noble request, it appears the White House is not interested.
While it’s not clear who exactly gave Rodman “permission” to go to Russia and negotiate on Griner’s behalf, an official representing President Joe Biden’s administration released a statement on Monday saying that the White House is already working to secure Griner’s release and does not want Rodman complicating matters.
“A Biden administration official noted the U.S. is already working to strike a deal with Russia to secure Griner’s release and warned of complications that might arise if anyone else wormed their way into the proceedings,” the statement said, according to The Rolling Stone.
While Griner has been imprisoned in Russia since February after she was arrested on drug charges, a prisoner swap negotiation is currently underway. A U.S. ambassador recently said he is “optimistic” that the United State and Russia will reach a deal for Griner’s return. On the Russian side, a Russian official said that “quiet diplomacy” was underway.
It looks like this ordeal is nearing its conclusion, but it’s unlikely Rodman will be involved.
