It seems like Vin Diesel’s wish could come true. In the now retracted Instagram post, the ‘Fast and the Furious‘ actor had sent a clear message: “I need Brittney Griner home before Christmas”. With the recent developments in Griner’s case, that is yet a possibility. Washington has been seeking a release for the WNBA star ever since her arrest in Russia earlier this year in February.

Now, according to a senior Russian diplomat, a mutually beneficial deal could be presented before the end of 2022. Brittney Griner has reportedly been imprisoned in Russia for geopolitical reasons. Many believe that she could be the linchpin for a possible prisoner swap. Viktor Bout, a convicted Russian arms trafficker, is said to be the person of interest. A prisoner exchange deal between the two superpowers could see Griner and Paul Whelan, another American currently incarcerated in Russia, be freed in return for Bout.

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US President Joe Biden and his administration have been attempting a possible negotiation for Griner and Whelan, who has been given a 16-year sentence for alleged espionage.

After being detained at a Moscow airport, Griner was accused of alleged drug possession and trafficking. She was subsequently given a nine-year sentence and was detained at IK-2, a penal colony in Mordovia.

The camp is reportedly known for its terrible living and labor conditions. Griner initially appealed the decision, which was later denied by a Russian court, meaning her sentence was upheld.

Optimistic signs for Brittney Griner and her supporters

Russia’s deputy foreign minister, Sergei Ryabkov spoke about a potential prisoner exchange deal for Brittney Griner.

“There always is a chance”,?he said. He commented that it would be “appropriate” for Russian-US relations if a deal could be reached. Ryabkov also opined that the US needs to refrain from “loudspeaker diplomacy” and engage in quieter discussions.

National security spokesman John Kirby stated that they are relentless in their pursuit to bring both Griner and Whelan back home as soon as possible, adding that “this administration is going to stay committed to that task“.

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Brittney Griner and her supporters will hope that such a deal can be reached before the end of the year.