KHIMKI, Jul 1 «high-level» Washington makes efforts to return basketball player Brittney Griner to her homeland, the US authorities consider her arrest illegal, Elizabeth Rood, deputy head of the American diplomatic mission in Moscow, told reporters. Today, a hearing began in Khimki on the merits of Griner, accused of drug smuggling. «The Russian government unfairly detained Griner … I can assure you that the American government at the highest level is making every effort to ensure that Ms. Griner and all unjustly detained American citizens return home in good health,» Rude said after the court session. The diplomat noted that she spoke with Griner during today's hearing. «She feels as good as possible in these difficult circumstances, she asked me to tell you that she is in a good mood and she keeps her presence of mind,» the deputy ambassador said. The process in the Khimki City Court of the Moscow Region will continue on July 7.
