Efforts grow to free Olga Jezler from Russian prison

Key Points:

• Olga Jezler, a U.S. green card holder, has been imprisoned in Russia for nearly four years on drug charges widely regarded as unjust and politically motivated, with advocates calling for her release due to her wrongful detention linked to U.S.-Russia tensions.
• Olga was arrested in 2022 after bringing CBD oil to Russia during a trip to support her sister's cancer treatment, despite previous trips without incident; she was sentenced to 10 years in prison, sparking concern from her husband Harold Jezler and hostage advocacy groups.
• Several Americans detained in Russia, including high-profile cases like Brittney Griner, have been released through prisoner exchanges, but Olga remains imprisoned, with her family and former detainees working to raise awareness and push for her freedom.
• The U.S. State Department is actively tracking Olga's case and prioritizing the release of wrongfully detained Americans in Russia, although diplomatic tensions and ongoing conflict complicate efforts to secure her return.
• Harold Jezler, along with former Russian detainees Alsu Kurmasheva and Ksenia Karelina, has been advocating for Olga's release, engaging with U.S. officials, including Trump administration representatives, and raising public awareness through media appearances and events in Washington.