On February 12, 2025, the National Security Advisor issued a statement regarding the release of Marc Fogel, an American detained by Russia. The statement highlighted the efforts of President Donald J. Trump and his Special Envoy Steve Witkoff in negotiating Fogel's release.
"Today, President Donald J. Trump and his Special Envoy Steve Witkoff are able to announce that Mr. Witkoff is leaving Russian airspace with Marc Fogel, an American who was detained by Russia," said the statement from National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.
The negotiation for Fogel's release is seen as a positive step towards ending the conflict in Ukraine. "President Trump, Steve Witkoff and the President’s advisors negotiated an exchange that serves as a show of good faith from the Russians and a sign we are moving in the right direction to end the brutal and terrible war in Ukraine," Waltz stated.
The advisor emphasized President Trump's ongoing commitment to securing the release of Americans detained worldwide: "Since President Trump’s swearing-in, he has successfully secured the release of Americans detained around the world, and President Trump will continue until all Americans being held are returned to the United States."
Marc Fogel is expected to be reunited with his family soon. "By tonight, Marc Fogel will be on American soil and reunited with his family and loved ones thanks to President Trump’s leadership," concluded Waltz.