President Trump Greets American Marc Fogel After His Release From Russia February 11th, 2025

2/11/2025
Held in a jail by Russia for almost 4 years for possession of 17g of medical marijuana. And, in all that time, Joe Biden never once lifted so much as a finger to help him or get him released and back home. Thank you, President Trump! THIS is what #MAGA looks like!

Marc Hilliard Fogel, born in 1959 in Butler, Pennsylvania, is an American history teacher known for his work in international schools. Fogel taught at the Anglo-American School in Moscow since 2012, where he educated children of U.S. diplomats. In August 2021, he was arrested at Sheremetyevo Airport in Russia for possessing 17 grams of medical marijuana prescribed for chronic pain. He was sentenced to 14 years in prison in June 2022 for drug trafficking. After advocacy by his family and U.S. officials, Fogel was designated "wrongfully detained" and released on February 11, 2025, through negotiations by the Trump administration. He returned to the U.S., expressing gratitude for his freedom after over three years in Russian custody. His case gained attention for its parallels with Brittney Griner's but initially did not receive the same level of public or governmental response.

TIME MARKS:
0:00 - 0:35: Arrival and Initial Greeting
The video begins with Marc Fogel arriving at the White House South Lawn, stepping out of a car into the snow. President Trump greets him warmly, shaking his hand as Fogel is draped in an American flag.
0:36 - 1:20: Trump’s Welcome and Praise for Fogel
Trump welcomes Fogel, calling it an honor to have him back and praising his resilience. He briefly mentions Fogel’s mother, joking about avoiding “big trouble” with her if he hadn’t secured the release.
1:21 - 2:45: Fogel’s Emotional Response and Gratitude
Fogel speaks, expressing overwhelming emotion and gratitude, calling himself “the luckiest man on earth” and a “middle-class schoolteacher in a dream world.” He thanks Trump, labeling him a “hero,” and acknowledges his family’s support.
2:46 - 4:10: Transition Inside and Trump’s Comments on Fogel’s Condition
The scene shifts indoors to the Diplomatic Reception Room. Trump remarks that Fogel “looks damned good” despite his ordeal, reassuring him about his appearance and condition after over three years in captivity.
4:11 - 5:30: Fogel’s Brief Reflection on Captivity
Fogel briefly touches on his time in Russia, mentioning over 400 injections and more than 100 days in medical wards, but declines to elaborate fully, saying he needs time to process it.
5:31 - 6:55: Trump’s Acknowledgment of Russia and Putin
Trump thanks Russia and President Vladimir Putin for facilitating Fogel’s release, calling it a “very fair” deal. He emphasizes Russia’s cooperative attitude, suggesting it as a positive sign for future relations.
6:56 - 8:20: Link to Ukraine War and Future Releases
Trump connects Fogel’s release to broader diplomacy, stating it “could be a big, important part” of ending the Ukraine war. He hints at another American release planned for the next day (February 12, 2025), without providing details.
8:21 - 9:45: Q&A: Terms of the Exchange
Reporters ask about what the U.S. gave Russia in exchange. Trump responds vaguely, saying “not much,” and reiterates that the deal was reasonable, contrasting it with past administrations’ negotiations.
9:46 - 10:55: Trump’s Invitation to See the Lincoln Bedroom
Trump invites Fogel to see the Lincoln Bedroom, calling it a special place few get to visit. He hints at its appropriateness for the occasion, though he doesn’t confirm if Fogel will stay overnight.
10:56 - 11:40: Fogel’s Final Thanks and Emotional Moment
Fogel thanks Trump again, fighting back tears, and expresses love for the country. He holds a beer from Pennsylvania, symbolizing his return home, as Trump stands by supportively.
11:41 - 12:47: Closing and Departure
Trump wraps up by reiterating his commitment to bringing Americans home, and the two prepare to leave the room. The video ends with them walking off, concluding the press interaction.

#MAGA