Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Senior Advisor Adam Boehler spoke with Kaitlan Collins of CNN on February 11, 2025, via telephone to discuss the release of Marc Fogel. Fogel was recently freed from Russia after a negotiation effort involving several U.S. officials. The plane carrying Fogel back home is owned by Steve Witkoff, Trump's Middle East envoy.
Boehler explained that the negotiation was a significant effort led by Secretary Rubio and involved other key figures such as Steve Witkoff. He emphasized that "the President leaned in," which expedited the process.
Secretary Rubio stated that they would soon learn more about Fogel's health but noted that "from all the reports, he’s doing fine." He acknowledged the team effort and praised President Trump for prioritizing the return of detained Americans.
In response to questions about whether an exchange occurred for Fogel's release, Boehler clarified, "There was consideration one way or other for nonviolent criminal... although it wasn’t linked one way or the other." He indicated this move signals a potential opening for future discussions but not an immediate exchange.
When asked about Steve Witkoff's direct involvement in Russia, Secretary Rubio said Witkoff went there specifically to bring Fogel back and expressed gratitude for his willingness to use his own resources.
Regarding future diplomatic efforts, Rubio mentioned ongoing engagements with European allies and Ukraine to seek an end to the conflict there. He reiterated President Trump's commitment to resolving international conflicts from a position of strength.
Rubio attributed Russia's cooperation in Fogel's release partly to President Trump's leadership style: "They want – they understand that this is a president that comes from a position of strength."
Both Boehler and Rubio highlighted the administration's priority on bringing Americans home. Another American is expected to return soon, though details remain undisclosed at this time.
The discussion concluded with acknowledgment of President Putin's involvement in authorizing such releases from Russia, underscoring his role in decisions of this magnitude.
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