Brittney Griner’s release at the forefront of POTUS Joe Biden's mind: “I’m determined to get her home and get her home safely”

There have been reports of Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner being transferred to a Russian labor camp after being sentenced to nine years in prison.

Sports Illustrated recently reported that US President Joe Biden is determined to get Griner back home and is currently trying to convince Russian president Vladimir Putin to a prisoner exchange, which would legally bring her back.

"We've been engaging on a regular basis...My hope is that now that the election is over, Mr. Putin will be able to discuss with us and will be able to talk more seriously about a prisoner exchange. My intention is to get her home. I am determined to get her home and get her home safely."

Russia's penal colonies aren't exactly the most comfortable place for captives. According to CNN, the majority of prisons in Russia are penal colonies where prisoners are frequently forced to do labor and are housed in barracks rather than cells.

Amnesty International also reported that prisoners are frequently transported over great distances within the nation in crowded railway cars, and the perilous trips can last up to a month. Additionally, prisons have outdated infrastructure and overcrowded conditions.

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Why did Brittney Griner get arrested in Russia?

Brittney Griner

Brittney Griner has been imprisoned in Russia since February after being found guilty of trying to smuggle illegal drugs into Russia in August. According to sources, Griner will now serve nine years if US President Joe Biden fails to negotiate with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Griner appeared in court on October 25 during her trial in an effort to get her prison term reduced, but it was denied. It's unclear if her attorneys plan to appeal the case to higher Russian courts.