Fafter a trip from bill richardsonIn Moscow to hold talks with Russia, a former UN ambassador and international hostage negotiator, the White House has chosen against private sector aid in talks to release the WNBA ace Brittany Griner and marine Paul Whelan,
Both were imprisoned in Russia this year, and hope to get help from Richardson, who runs an organization helping Americans who they believe are wrongfully imprisoned overseas.
In July, Richardson claimed he had been in contact with the White House and Russian officials.
Now, messages from US officials seem to suggest a change in approach.
“Our message is that private citizens should not be in Moscow right now and private citizens cannot negotiate on behalf of the United States government,” National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said on Wednesday.
State Department spokesman Ned Price also said, “Our concern is that anything other than further negotiations through the established channel is likely to hinder efforts made to see the release of Paul Whelan and Brittany Griner.”
“We welcome all efforts that are closely coordinated with us that can help seek the safe release of any Americans who are unjustly detained around the world.”
However, some people close to the process have criticized that statement and approach from the White House, claiming it could slow down talks to ensure his release.