Update 08/05/2022 11:25am:

Yesterday, it was reported that WNBA star Brittney Griner was sentenced to nine years in prison following the conclusion of her trial in Russia. Griner reportedly brought cannabis into the country in February 2022, which led to her being detained.

Since then, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have issued statements on the conviction of Griner. 

Biden said, “Today, American citizen Brittney Griner received a prison sentence that is one more reminder of what the world already knew: Russia is wrongfully detaining Brittney. It’s unacceptable, and I call on Russia to release her immediately so she can be with her wife, loved ones, friends, and teammates. My administration will continue to work tirelessly and pursue every possible avenue to bring Brittney and Paul Whelan home safely as soon as possible.”

Kamala Harris took to Twitter and spoke on the matter, saying, “With today’s sentencing, Russia continues its wrongful detention of Brittney Griner. She should be released immediately. @POTUS and I, and our entire Administration, are working every day to reunite Brittney, as well as Paul Whelan, with loved ones who miss each of them dearly.” Take a look above. 

source: ESPN

Original 08/04/2022 1:25pm:

WNBA star Brittney Griner was sentenced to nine years in prison Thursday (August 4) at the conclusion of her trial in Russia after bringing cannabis into the country in February. Judge Anna Sotnikova said she had found that Griner intentionally broke the law, and added that her time served would count toward her sentence. 

President Joe Biden reacted to the news of Griner's conviction, stating, "Today, American citizen Brittney Griner received a prison sentence that is one more reminder of what the world already knew: Russia is wrongfully detaining Brittney. It's unacceptable, and I call on Russia to release her immediately so she can be with her wife, loved ones, friends, and teammates."

US National Security Council Director for Strategic Communications John Kirby also urged Russia to consider the proposal for a prisoner swap with the Russians. Kirby stated, "We urge the Russians, again, to seriously consider that proposal, to act on it. And let’s get these two Americans home where they belong."