WNBA player Russian custody. Why should I care?

Great Debates
1

Brittany Griner, a WNBA player, is in Russian custody for a drug offense. Apparently she travelled to Russia with a small amount of cannabis oil in her luggage. She claims it was unintentional - the result of packing hurriedly. She has now pled guilty, and there is talk of a prisoner exchange between Russia and the US. I’ve seen several news articles quite sympathetic to Griner.

Explain to me what I’m missing. She DID bring drugs into Russia, and got caught. Now US policy is supposed to be tweaked to get her out? Maybe instead Americans should realize the importance of either not going to hostile countries, or if they wish to, keeping their drugs at home.

3

Please let me know if you would like this reopened in the Pit. It is not suitable for GD and looks far more like a rant.

Optionally, you can try this again, a little less ranty in IMHO.

4

I forgot to link to the new guidance, it would probably be helpful.