American woman released same day as Griner recounts horror of Russian captivity l GMA

Sarah Krivanek, who was held in captivity in a Russian prison for most of this year, says she was assaulted by an inmate and left without contact to the outside world.
READ MORE: abcn.ws/3WvyLhG
SUBSCRIBE: bit.ly/2Zq0dU5
SIGN UP to get the daily GMA Wake-Up Newsletter:
gma.abc/2Vzcd5j
VISIT GMA: www.goodmorningamerica.com
FOLLOW:
TikTok: / gma
Instagram: / goodmorningamerica
Facebook: / goodmorningamerica
Twitter: / gma
WATCH:
abc.go.com/shows/good-morning...
hulu.tv/2YnifT
#gma #russia #prisoner #brittneygriner #paulwhelan

[@elainemarylee]

Note to Americans, STOP ALL travels to Russia.

[@anseldiaz1968]

Ignorant Americans. You should specify.

[@dewilew2137]

You would think this was common sense.

[@vuksgitau]

@@dewilew2137 Right?

[@joshthegreatest1198]

Go to Ukraine

[@elainemarylee]

@@joshthegreatest1198 You first.

[@SL-lz9jr]

Great to have a friend willing to fight for her! It must be traumatic to feel so incredibly let down by the government.

[@eagledice2008]

Yes by the Trump government who were in power at the time

[@vipe7ify]

GMA isn’t telling the true story. This woman got into an altercation with her Russian bf and was arrested for assaulting him with a knife. The boyfriend ended up dropping the charges. She was released but WAS told that she couldn’t leave until her final hearing to finalize the closed charges. She ran to the US embassy afraid and an official from the embassy booked her an underground flight so she could just leave (despite them knowing that she was ordered not to yet). She gets flagged at the airport and is re-arrested for violating that specific order. While she should not have been in jail for so long, I don’t understand the half truths and complete dishonesty from GMA about the situation.

[@michaelrupley3605]

Stupidity

[@SonyaHudson]

She is absolutely right 💯. She should have received the same treatment as Brittney. I'm so sorry that this happened to her and that she is free.

[@mrs.chandler9384]

She didn’t have drugs

[@north2green]

Out of curiosity, can you count to 1? What do you anti-government and self-entitled morons want; Griner spent 10 months in prison and this lady also spent 10 months in prison, yet you´re saying she should have received the same treatment as Griner? Anyone with half a brian sees they were treated the same, I mean 10 months to 10 months. Sounds to me like you´re one of those lsoers who always complains about how someone famous gets treated differently even when it is obvious no one was treated special. I mean come on, you can throw away an old t-shirt, but stupid is forever.

[@sherralbell5962]

This country seems to think that the working class has no value but basketball stars do

[@what8562]

No. She shouldn't have. She moved to the RF permanently back in 2017, she did have a physical altercation with her boyfriend, her sentence was, like, a year, and she was freed. He situation was different. That was why it was treated differently.

[@exdoode]

@@what8562 Indeed, people are pulling these kinds of people out of the wood work to try and discredit Brittany. She wasn't sentenced to a 9 year sentence, as a political pawn.

[@lilymiranda4381]

Traveling outside the US is more dangerous than ever. Be careful where you are going and stay vigilant.

[@WhatTheHeck1290]

Fear Badger

[@shelbyluby1685]

Bring in the United States is also more dangerous than eve

[@darrenscott6982]

What are you talking about have you been to some of the major cities in America?? They are extremely dangerous

[@n4musica]

@@darrenscott6982 lol right! The US is one of the most dangerous places to be!

[@Kubwayo10]

That why I have three different passports for my safety.

[@mizzury54]

Does she think it was just a coincidence that she was released the same day ?

[@Goodiesfanful]

Maybe two Americans got swapped for Bout after all?

[@rachelwalsh6116]

@@Goodiesfanful no she was already released and was trying to get money to come home

[@sizakelenkabinde1508]

I’m glad she’s back. I wish her healing and happiness💜❤️🥹

[@brooke9225]

Dude she literally went to jail for beating her boyfriend and then tried to claim it was self defense. She doesn't need any healing

[@rachelwalsh6116]

@@brooke9225 it was self defense as her boyfriend said it was and she had marks on her to prove it was.

[@brooke9225]

@@rachelwalsh6116 It was stated at the time of her arrest that she had no injuries of any sort and she violated Russia's self defense laws anyways by stabbing him.

[@rachelwalsh6116]

@@brooke9225 her stabbing him was self defense as he was beating her. He could have killed her. Russia basically is saying it ok if you beat someone that that person has no rights

[@brooke9225]

@@rachelwalsh6116 learn Russia's self defense laws. What she did goes against their laws and she isn't a citizen so of course she's not going to be protected for something like that in a country she's not a citizen of

[@yolandajohnson8685]

I'm glad she was released

[@nakeshia08]

My prayers for her. Thank God she made it back.

[@Broadtolove]

Hey Keshia! Apologies for dropping this here I came across your KZbin channel and I would love to know you better. I'm guessing you must be an honest person, because I always found your comments to be so nice and respectful. If it's okay with you, I'd love to be friend but if it sounds odd or embarrassing in any way please don't embarrass me by replying. Have a wonderful day, and keep sharing

[@TheWordIs]

What part do ppl don't understand when they tell you, "don't go to Russia"?

[@Breonaleonard]

Hmm GMA isn’t telling the true story. This woman got into an altercation with her Russian bf and was arrested for assaulting him with a knife. The boyfriend ended up dropping the charges. She was released but WAS told that she couldn’t leave until her final hearing to finalize the closed charges. She ran to the US embassy afraid and an official from the embassy booked her an underground flight so she could just leave (despite them knowing that she was ordered not to yet). She gets flagged at the airport and is re-arrested for violating that specific order. While she should not have been in jail for so long, I don’t understand the half truths and complete dishonesty from GMA about the situation.

[@sonyabolden9652]

Wow!

[@lailonnib]

White women stay lying!

[@mmjkk]

I was watching this and wondering where the rest of her story is. I don’t know if Americans realise that foreigners in the US are arrested and imprisoned in the States all the time for violating US laws and don’t expect a bailout from their governments.

[@n4musica]

@@mmjkk Right! Like this feels like GMA just wanted to have a story where they can talk about the Russian government, and while bad things are happening in the government there, bad things are happening in the government in the US too!

[@tonyapendleton7467]

I watched this thinking the same thing as she told the story from her own mouth to People! Also seems like Russia though she could be swapped, then realized she had no advocates and let her sit. Once they had Brittney swapped they no longer needed to hold her.

[@thatsmyhoodiepal]

Im so glad you’re home, Sarah! I’ve been praying and praying for you. Since the day I heard about you, I have never forgotten you. ❤️ Welcome home ❤️

[@wiredup886]

Sarah is a violent and should have been in jail. She tried to stab someone to death and she is a threat to society.

[@rachel9508]

I’m glad they are both back. Now it time to bring ex marine Paul Wheelan home

[@teresavitek1097]

Except he was not a marine. Read up on his military career

[@tonyapendleton7467]

@@teresavitek1097 He said it correctly EX-marine

[@gokarengo]

Whelan should be an embarrassment to the Marines. He committed treasonous stuff

[@teresavitek1097]

Wheelman was discharged from marines due to behavior. He disgraced the corp!

[@what8562]

The US is not his home. It is one out of his three or four citizenships.

[@tomv5988]

Just a warning for people don't go to Russia, don't go to Iran. There's probably a dozen countries that you should avoid. You're telling me you have a job offer in Russia..Tell them no thanks. You fall in love with a Russian. Tell them the wedding is not going to happen there.

[@beewalk34]

They will still go... Murica!!!🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@anitapablos6695]

Some people pure fools and expect help

[@I-HAVE-A-BOMB]

Just dont break laws and be a pos. You'll be good. Complaining and Karen behaviour is unique to the west don't do that. Like look at this woman, fat as a walrus and claiming she is malnourished, faking ptsd. Don't be like that and you're fine.

[@gaslighting923]

How Come Britney Griner don't come do a live interview like Sarah did then have a written publicist statement talk for her!?

[@app1mxh]

Race, gender, and s*xual preferences. Some feel that a second white man should have been set free before her. Trevor Reed was released first.

[@gaslighting923]

@@app1mxh What does that have to do with the tea in China lol Nothing stopped Britney Griner from doing a live interview but her self.

[@app1mxh]

@@gaslighting923 Most likely trauma due to being in a Russian penal colony. Most likely trauma from being most hated American right now.

[@kimking5928]

Give her time. Damn.

[@jonbanks653]

I read about her story months ago and am thankful she is safely home

[@TheMadelineTV]

Praying for your healing!!!! So glad you’re back & I’m reaching out to you

[@micheleboyle3547]

It would be awesome if she writes a book…..totally incredible and horrific story…..

[@wlcoston]

Life isn’t fair. Glad she is home but let’s not assume that a person’s privilege and entitlement that works in one country will work in another. Brittney’s detainment and outrageous sentence was a political stunt. None of it is fair. These types of negotiations are sensitive. Some people don’t make it out of these situations with their life. Let’s be grateful that she is alive, well, and back home.

[@jonbanks653]

"a person’s privilege and entitlement that works in one country will work in another." Truer words were never spoken. Very nicely stated

[@tinahammond4920]

That part they hate Americans

[@junglesuperstar9270]

Griner’s detainment was according to the Russian criminal code . Smuggling large amount of illegal substance .

[@wiredup886]

​@@junglesuperstar9270you lying psycho s*** Brittney Griner didn't have a large amount of anything it was the size of a pin top.

[@wiredup886]

​@@junglesuperstar9270Sarah is the one that stabbed someone and it should have been attempted murder. She tried to catch a flight out of the country illegally and was flagged. She is a violent criminal that should be in prison.

[@shaneekaminniefield6129]

I heard her story almost a year ago. I prayed and prayed for her; that they would let her go. Some of us Americans never forgot her. I wish she knew that. God is good!!! Hallelujah!

[@laurencaulton103]

Thank goodness for her friend.

[@moniquevann9950]

Glad she’s back on US soil 💐

[@LeoRousseau]

I'm so sorry for what this beautiful woman went through. Everyone just stay the hell away from Russia! Their true colors are showing now more than ever! With that being said, glory to Ukraine! 🇺🇦🇺🇸👊

[@steveshapiro326]

Bless Ukraine. The history of Russia is filled with both opulence and barbarism. Read what Peter the Great did. Cringe over what his daughter Elizabeth did. Torture, whippings, Gulags, secret police. The mentality still lingers in the modern world.

[@LeoRousseau]

@@steveshapiro326 it's just horrible. 🇺🇸🇺🇦♥️💙💛♥️🇺🇦🇺🇸

[@darrenscott6982]

Americans that get captured should be left there, they know the risk.

[@LeoRousseau]

@@darrenscott6982 you are correct, they do know the risk and have been warned of the reality.

[@junglesuperstar9270]

1) don’t smuggle drugs 2) don’t stab people 3 ) read laws of the country you are staying in . Surprise -surprise . They can be different

[@juicy0513]

How many accents does she have in this one interview?

[@LuiCypher]

You noticed it too!!!!

[@what8562]

Yep. I would be surprised if American is her only citizenship.

[@frowniebrown86]

I was worried about her, so happy for her tooo

[@lknsammy]

Problem with these people is there in another country need to understand they’re not back in the states. I’m sure men have more rights than women in Russia. If you go after a guy with a knife, you’re probably gonna get in trouble. And early hearing her side of the story about the roomie.

[@r.lewisblake7793]

A lot of expats don’t seem to understand that either. 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@Ilovecerealcerealcereal]

In all honesty without Britney Griner, she might’ve not been released so soon. It’s unfair for sure especially since she didn’t actually seem to commit a crime.

[@Broadtolove]

Hey Kim! Apologies for dropping this here I came across your KZbin channel and I would love to know you better. I'm guessing you must be an honest person, because I always found your comments to be so nice and respectful. If it's okay with you, I'd love to be friend but if it sounds odd or embarrassing in any way please don't embarrass me by replying. Have a wonderful day, and keep sharing

[@beewalk34]

@@Broadtolove 🤣😆😀😆🤣😆😀😆🤣😀😆🤣

[@Amanda-ee8oh]

Thank you for covering this story

[@nathanlyon8775]

When Griner got arrested all the people in the comments had nothing but racist things to say. I wonder if they'll treat this womn the same?? 😆😆 Of course not 😂

[@Dontgiveup964]

No ...because they wanted it to be about race. We wouldn't know unless this was posted on KZbin

[@LuiCypher]

This interview is way off!!! This ish is bizarre!!!

[@loginl8416]

Great Human Being God Bless her!!!!

[@iamher7406]

Thank God she's home. I hope she is able to heal and find peace

[@colleenbenson7755]

Thank you for covering this important topic ✨👍✨

[@moringaottawa]

Ty for reporting on this

[@n4musica]

As sad and scary as it is to have this happen, getting your own silverware and not having vitamins could have been left out of this 😬 GIRL!

[@cyntmacz]

She was not in good health going in though.

[@moringaottawa]

Very happy Griner is out and her. Just to be clear.

[@abbylynn8872]

Oh my gosh..... I've been following her story. I was thinking she should have been part of the trade deal. So happy for her to make it home. 💕 Why didn't we hear about this with Brittany

[@what8562]

Because she was freed weeks if not months before she returned to the US and Brittany was still imprisoned.

[@mannafestluv]

She had to raise funds to go home ….not like BG. She came home same day as Griner on separates planes (so not to embarrass the president). And checked herself into a hospital. Disgusting….

[@what8562]

@@mannafestluv She has to get money for her flight from the embassy because she was free. She was not imprisoned like Griner.

[@frjcde9392]

@@what8562 keep defending this criminal government. They let her rot for no reason, meanwhile Griner actually committed a crime!

[@what8562]

@@frjcde9392 They did not let her rot. She was a resident of the RF when she got into a domestic dispute with her live-in Russian boyfriend and used a knife At that point she remembered about he US passport and used the embassy's help in her attempt to leave the country before the trial. She only got 15 months and served 11 months because she was "their American". After the war broke out, the less she has to do with the US embassy, the better it would have been for her. Unfortunately for her, she exited the prison penniless and her "friends" in both countries were in no rush to help. That's how the US became involved again.

[@melomel385]

This Woman clearly wasn't born in the USA.

[@pamelacarter5108]

Bless Her Heart

[@usenglishwithnativeenglish3820]

Did that reporter just end with, "fascinating"? It's not fascinating, it's a tragedy that should never have happened. However, I'm a Native American tribal member, and my people know that you can't trust the government. Some of you are just beginning to figure that out, but we've known about it since they threw away the treaties that THEY agreed to. I'm so glad she's home. May she find healing and peace. Inshallah. #landback #mmiw

[@sabrinar.purnell3869]

Sand Creek all over again.

[@SonyaHudson]

The reporter's use of the word "fascinating" was used in the same context as the word "unbelievable." You're right about the government. I still get frustrated when I think about how your ancestors land was stolen by the government. I'm glad that she is free too. 🙌🏾

[@north2green]

haha you´re a joke, defintely not a native tribal member, if you are you´re not a native american, you´re probably just someone who claims they are to feel special. I mean you figured it out before anyone else did, what, are you super smart? No, you´re writing comments on youtube videos, and you´re saying something believing you´re fooling people. You fooled one fool, Sonya, but 99% of the people are not naive and stupid ;) your whole agenda by saying what you said is to get others to be anti-government, like you are. I say this; leave, we don´t want you here f you´re not happy. But you won´t leave, because as much as you complain you have a good life, you don´t suffer any, and you just are another self.entitled loser who wants to complain about anything. Just go away, go to some island where you´ll be happy. native tribal member my ass lol

[@dee27206]

Wow so you’re Native American and Muslim??? That’s fascinating to me. Masha Allah sis!

[@dee27206]

Wow so you’re Native American and Muslim??? That’s fascinating to me. Masha Allah sis!

[@BambiBryant]

After watching Killer Sally, I’m not convinced this lady was innocent in her “self-defense”. She used a knife against her partner, and she had to serve time for it. Then she got released. She’s just upset she didn’t get the same tv time as Griner. She got out, so why complain about this now? Be grateful. Don’t attack anyone else with a knife, even in “self defense”.

[@Alec72HD]

She seems like EDP, Emotionally Disturbed Person. Something is off about her. Her English language is riddled with mistakes, while she doesn't seem to have an accent.

[@faithcross8109]

You’ve obviously never been to Russia or dealt with Russian people or anyone from an ex USSR republic.

[@junglesuperstar9270]

@@faithcross8109 do it all the time

[@nenala7684]

When she said *no vitamins* lmfao I lost it

[@khismet]

So ENTITLED and those other prisoners were sick of her whining..LOL 🤣

[@nenala7684]

@@khismet Lmfao lmfao lmfao!! SHE HAD TO FETCH HER BOWLS LMAO

[@justthatgirl-ct4jo]

It's valid if you're malnourished.

[@marykw5393]

You need vitamin to say healthy they don’t live in healthy deist only cabbage soup, you can easily become sick.

[@kimking5928]

Exactly. She chose to live in Russia over living in America. Deal with it.

[@romangarcia9704]

This was much better then a written statement from Britney Griner publicist team!

[@dewilew2137]

Why are you making comparisons?

[@romangarcia9704]

@@dewilew2137 Why not? I dont trust Ghost Writers written statements but only what comes out of the horses mouth and she gave that to us but if Britney did do a live interview then my opinion of her would change some what.

[@tinahammond4920]

U could have kept that

[@infopm3567]

The million dollar question is: why didnt she receive the same treatment from the US goverment as the other american lady?

[@DerrickRuthless]

Russia/Putin must be held accountable. #StopPutin

[@junglesuperstar9270]

For what ? Not telling griner not to smuggle illegal substance ? Not to tell this woman not to stab another person and then violate court ruling by escaping the country while her case is not finalized ? Americans are stupid

[@marykw5393]

One has $$$ and athlete status. Other is a normal middle class worker worth nothing to this gov. Her friend was the only one who cared and wrote to the government for help. That’s a true friend.

[@brooke9225]

She was arrested for beating her boyfriend. Big difference. Their charges weren't the same and this lady was living their with her Russian boyfriend.

[@rachelwalsh6116]

@@brooke9225 her boyfriend literally was beating her and she devended herself.

[@kimking5928]

She left the US to live in Russia. Then she wants the US to look back on her. Pfft. Please.

[@brooke9225]

@@rachelwalsh6116 allegedly was beat by her boyfriend. Although it was stated that she didn't have any injuries herself at the time of being arrested for stabbing him.

[@rachelwalsh6116]

@@brooke9225 it did say she had marks on her and that her boyfriend told them that he had beat her. They though dint care and still arrested her. That is detaining her wrongfully

[@evelynmarx6212]

Omg I would keep that friend forever ! Seriously she owes everything to her !

[@alos4025]

I always wondered about Sarah. People seemed to only be focused on BG and Paul Whelan. People forget about those like Sarah.

[@philhoward8768]

Remember when you leave this country, you are at the mercy of another country’s law and whatever else they see fit.

[@winniegrant8113]

Me I would be so happy to be home God bless her & I hope she fine her happiness

[@raymondglaser8481]

Why wasn't this public too? I hate the media. Now they gave her 7 minutes.

[@royrogers3404]

Why are we just hearing about it now?

[@HeyTexasItsMe]

Moral of the story…don’t go to unfriendly countries.

[@HeyTexasItsMe]

When will Americans learn we will not be “fairly” treated in other countries?

[@JaVi-wf1gl]

Griner for that swap is crazy to me!

[@sbg1911]

It Absolutely is

[@ciscerly]

At least they got those two out.

[@darrenscott6982]

This lady should have been released not Brittany. Brittany broke the law and knew the risk.

[@darrenscott6982]

@@reformedmeghead3477 They should have never traded The Merchant of death for Brittney Griner. She received special treatment and it puts a target on the backs of every American in Russia.

[@pcbusby]

@@darrenscott6982 wasn't it an empty cart that was in her bag? That's different than the guy who tried to bring a whole oz into Russia. As a medical patient, I feel for her. She probably forgot it was in there.

[@lovenothate2023]

Praise God that she is home. But this should have been addressed much sooner. God bless you Sarah!

[@manuellubian5709]

Knowing a little ab't how the UN operates behind the scenes I would be willing to bet somewhere along the way a (silent) ransom was paid for BG, b / c, he / she was viewed as a more valuable asset to the U.S. IF I am right ab't this more than likely BG, her / his husband and family were probably told to keep quiet ab't it and never mention it. Plain and simple.

[@passedoutsober6322]

Aww poor americans thinking their american narcissism and entitlements go with them everywhere

[@lillianwilliams5510]

Thank God and USA government. I read about her case a few months ago and I would comment on her incarceration, along with Paul Whelen and Britney Grinner, each time there was an up date. I couldn't remember if her name was Patricia or Sarah. There wasn't much coverage about her,except exactly, what she is saying in this interview. Thank You Lord she is safely back in USA 🇺🇸 🙏. How many other Americans are incarcerated in foreign prisons, that we don't know. Many people travel alone and may be missing, and no way of contacting anyone. It is so important, that Travelers, let someone know where they are going and when they are to return. How they are traveling and where are they staying. Lots of people, just take trips and everything is fine. That one solo traveler,may just be the one,who gets arrested. Thankful that Ms.Sarah,had friends, who were concerned. Thank you for the update. P.S. Don't forget Americans work in foreign countries,go to universities,and are also Government Employees,Journalists,Filmmakers,Entertainers, Tourists and , MILITARY,for the most part they stay and are safe,BUT HOW MANY GET ARRESTED AND MAYBE SPEND TIME IN A FOREIGN PRISON AND WE NEVER KNOW. I READ THAT MS SARAH WAS TEACHING IN RUSSIA AND HAD FRIENDS IN USA, WHO WERE. CONCERNED ABOUT HER;HOWEVER, I DIDNT KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT HER UNTIL BRITTANY GRINNER WAS IMPRISONED. THAT SARAH FOUND OUT BRITTANY WAS IN THE SAME PRISON AND SOMEHOW HER FRIENDS WERE ABLE TO GET THAT INFORMATION TO SOCIAL MEDIA. DIDNT THEY KNOW PAUL WHELEN, WAS THERE ALSO. I AM THANKFUL SARAH WAS RELEASED, BUT PEOPLE SHOULD STOP COMPARING BRITTANY TO OTHER PRISONERS. MAYBE SARAH WAS GOING TO BE THE BARGAINING CHIP FOR THE TRADE AND THEN BRITTANY WAS A BETTER PAWN. THE BOTTOM LINE THESE ARE AMERICANS. YES PEOPLE ARE BORN IN OTHER COUNTRIES BECOME USA CITIZENS AND TRAVEL TO OTHER COUNTRIES, SOME HAVE DUAL CITIZENSHIP. MAYBE SARAH WAS SET UP. WHY DIDNT SHE JUST LEAVE THE FIRST TIME,HE BEAT HER. SHE DIDN'T HAVE ENOUGH MONEY,OR SHE WAS UNDER A CONTRACT AND JUST LEFT,SHE COULD HAVE STILL BEEN ARRESTED. I FELT SO SAD,WHEN I READ THE USA EMBASSY HAD HELPED HER GET AS FAR AS THE AIRPLANE AND THEN SHE WAS ARRESTED.SO WAS THIS A GOVERNMENT NEGOTIATION, THAT WAS SECRET AND SOME ONE LEAKED THE INFORMATION. I AM A BORN AMERICAN AND I AND MY FAMILY HAVE TRAVELED TO FOREIGN COUNTRIES. WE HAD A FEW EXPERIENCES THAT WEREN'T BREAKING ANY LAWS, JUST A FEW LANGUAGE PROBLEMS, BUT THANK GOD, WE WERE NEVER DETAINED. IN ONE SITUATION, I WAS GIVEN A GIFT,THAT WAS CONSIDERED,POSSIBLY STOLEN. I DIDNT SPEAK THE LANGUAGE, BUT OUR TOUR GUIDE WHO HAD GIVEN IT TO ME,WAS ABLE TO SPEAK FOR ME ,BUT HE ACTUALLY KNEW, I WOULD BE QUESTIONED, SO AN INVESTIGATION WAS DONE.THAT IS ALL,I CAN PUT ON SOCIAL MEDIA. SO I WARN ANYONE, KNOW THE LAWS OF EVERY COUNTRY YOU TRAVEL, BUT ALSO KNOW WHAT IS A GIFT AND WHAT HAS TO BE DECLARED. IF I HAD TRIED TO HIDE THE GIFT,I MAY HAVE BEEN ARRESTED. BECAREUL WHAT PEOPLE GIVE YOU BEFORE YOU GO THROUGH SECURITY. MOST AIRPORTS, TRAIN STATIONS AND BUS STATIONS HAVE SIGNS, WARNING TRAVERLS DO NOT ACCEPT ANYTHING,FROM STRANGERS OR LAST MINUTE GIFTS,THAT COULD GET YOU DETAINED, EVEN FOOD. KNOW CUSTOMS AND CULTURE,ALSO KNOW INTERNATIONAL CUSTOMS RULES, for purchases. Another tip,if you buy new clothes in USA before you travel keep your receipts, because you will get through USA security, but coming back you may get questioned, especially if they look new or you didn't wear. brand new shoes and and purses,especially Designer items. Also your own personal jewelry can be questioned. I just take what,I wear and limit buying new items before I travel . Anyone who travels anywhere,may have to go through some form of security. Weight,size and shape of luggage, can be questioned. Teenagers traveling alone or in groups without chaperones, or parents are questioned more often. Now there is a difference in hiding your belongings and packing so everything is exposed on. security. I wrap my nice clothes in between tissue paper and put my shoes in shoe bags,and some security agents will just on spite go through and mess up your packing knowing everything is exposed to the public and you have to repack,after they have messed up your careful packing. Brittany didn't smuggle, her medicine wasn't hidden. she had her prescription. She was targeted and set up. Paul Whelen is charged with being a spy. Sarah was defending herself. I have heard horror stories about USA EMBASSY Officials not helping 😑 How many people are kidnapped missing or just disappear. I continue to pray for anyone who is incarcerated, without just cause. We know governments are not always fair , but I still believe our government does not just abandon our citizens. Many may debate that, but Sarah is home,BRITTANY is home and we continue to pray for Paul Whelen and others. Not only in foreign prisons but in USA. I pray travelers learn rules laws,customs, etc in any country. We still have POW, MIA. One last tip use a method to identify your luggage, as many have similar luggage. Name tags should be durable and safely attached. paper tags can be ripped off. Also get your luggage immediately! and report it missing immediately. Some airlines will put luggage on a separate plane, that is going to the same destination. but they will announce, luggage on a specific flight ,will come on another carousel or will be delayed coming off the plane.. Know you luggage and try to get it as soon as you see it,so it doesn't keep going around after a certain amount of time the belt will stop and your bag will go back or get caught up in another luggage release. One time about 20 bags came at the same time and they all looked alike and belong to different people. One time a very large group had different colors, but their bags came off,one at a time.that was interesting as they kept waiting for someone's bag to come. It was obvious, they couldn't leave until everyone had their luggage. I could tell you about my students traveling. but I could write a book on checked luggage 🧳 😩 There are guide books on travel tips and solid advice, get one before you do travel , even in your home country . This got off one topic.

[@christinavelazquez8931]

Ur awesome w knowledge! 🙏💕 Prayers do u remember the movie broke down palace w Claire Danes? What u said kind of reminds me of that movie! Good info! 😢🥲🤔😰

[@teresamarie7460]

This lady is delusional if she thinks she can complain about being mistreated in any prison, including a US prison she would be accommodated. 😂

[@labyrinthworm4511]

Well look here! This a real statement from a real victim of being in prison in Russia then a publicist written statement for Brittney Griner!

[@junglesuperstar9270]

How? She violated the court ruling by trying to escape the country

[@unknownunknown5961]

2 different charges and hers appear legit, Brittany was trumped up for politics but we all know what this is about.

[@marleiserashford396]

Wow. Loss for words. Weird. Different treatments for 2 Americans. I wonder why? Glad they both came home. The swap was STRANGE.

[@candicane1]

Y’all, please stay out of these countries. At least just limit visitation and living abroad to countries who are a part of the UN. I’m glad she got out of there. I will say this, I think Griner’s release did actually help her. It’s not a coincidence she was released on the same day. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@mattk8810]

She wasnt arrested for no reason either

[@fleurrus9052]

Russia is a member of UN

[@Amanda-ee8oh]

She got released because a reporter from People Magazine and workers from an independent human rights organization found her there and brought her situation to public attention. Correlation is not causation.

[@rachelwalsh6116]

@@mattk8810 she was as she was devending herself

[@rachelwalsh6116]

She was already out

[@chrisnoyd2058]

Sooo glad you're back! Sorry you were left; but at least you're back now. I honestly have no comment on who had to become incarcerated for you to come home; other than it's been a travesty. Have a good life!!!

[@monicadomingovasquez6620]

Sad our government says if your not rich you will get ditched

[@LuiCypher]

Was trevor reed rich????? Don't be dumb and childish!

[@gillowens24]

That is horrible so scary

[@brooke9225]

First off you're at the mercy of the laws of another country when you're there and she was more like a resident there living with a boyfriend that she beat and caused bodily harm to and then claimed it was self defense without any proof. They were totally different things. Maybe don't assault your boyfriend next time and then you won't spend time locked up

[@sheilacoleman1400]

She wasn't traveling like Britney greiner. She chose to live there since 2017 her case is different anyway

[@ricardogalvan2118]

Why is she complaining??? She got out!

[@kadiethompson1894]

Yeah but Grindr got out without doing anytime!

[@bestillpatience6380]

White

[@2ndMostEndangeredGender]

why are you complaining? You could have just hit 'next'...

[@2ndMostEndangeredGender]

@@bestillpatience6380 would you consider yourself a bigot, or racist?

[@aw5003]

she need to thank god she is home because Russia does not allow visitation nor phone calls , just stay away from Russia ‼️

[@harrycrazy46]

She seems like an angry person.

[@bestillpatience6380]

Aka white

[@2ndMostEndangeredGender]

@@bestillpatience6380 why do you feel inferior to white people?

[@mannafestluv]

I wanna hear her story on another platforms. GMA in the DEMs pocket.

[@bellaapple2166]

Lady you're no longer inside of a Russian priso. Be happy you're home. What did you want? Britney is a celebrity so of course she got more media coverage.

[@manny.3248]

I see what she's saying but a 9 year sentence compared to a 15 month one is different. Why trade someone who is serving multiple years for her. Plus this talk that it was just her roommate when it was said that it was her boyfriend is nonsense. Keep it real. Also I don't believe her case had anything to do with politics because she did assault him with a knife regardless of the claims of self defense because most places will still overlook that factor in charging and sentencing. She better be glad she just received 15 months which I believe she didn't even serve the whole thing.

[@alexialanda27]

Agreed. How she doesn't see that is beyond me. It's like yes let's trade someone extremely dangerous for you when you're only serving a little over a yr. It sucks but that's what happens when you live in another country.

[@Breonaleonard]

Right. They’re clearly not telling the complete story. It was definitely her boyfriend and not a roommate. These things were stated differently in another news interview done months back🤨

[@LuiCypher]

This interview is giving crisis actor.

[@pbtv4985]

I’m sorry

[@NatashaMay10]

She was released without having to do a prisoner swap and before the end of her sentence. There’s other Americans still in prison in Russia. It’s not a good situation for anyone.

[@latishabuckner8231]

She was released the same day as Griner and her friend wouldn't have been able to get her out if the government truly forgot

[@lCdGarcia]

There’s a lot of people lockd up with heroing story, lockd up for weed

[@ashleyhartford6048]

Call you step someone get out of here

[@blakrumba]

😢

[@janec.kowalczyk5824]

Thank you for this story @willreeve_ Keep up the #awesome job! #SuperMan is definitely proud of his son 🤗🙏♥️

[@tn_swami]

She should be counting her stars she is an American citizen. Most countries don't care.

[@michaelfoster886]

This women committed a crime in another country and expects our government to drop every single thing just to get her out?!

[@Bestdayever2020]

The only reason I ever knew about her was as a result of Britney Griner being arrested.

[@abbylynn8872]

I knew of her story because of her friend. I'd been following it. I was thinking they should have gotten both women out.

[@bobdole920]

first im hearing of this women. why am i not surprised.

[@carlbrewster2507]

My thoughts and prayers for her. She will not get the recognition as Griner did but she is out. She was protecting herself from abuse as Griner violated drug laws

[@tinahammond4920]

Over sentencing and they hate Americans

[@vipe7ify]

GMA isn’t telling the true story. This woman got into an altercation with her Russian bf and was arrested for assaulting him with a knife. The boyfriend ended up dropping the charges. She was released but WAS told that she couldn’t leave until her final hearing to finalize the closed charges. She ran to the US embassy afraid and an official from the embassy booked her an underground flight so she could just leave (despite them knowing that she was ordered not to yet). She gets flagged at the airport and is re-arrested for violating that specific order. While she should not have been in jail for so long, I don’t understand the half truths and complete dishonesty from GMA about the situation.

[@MusicalJeanAz]

This is just awful. Have never heard of this woman until now. That's shameful. So glad she's out of the awful country.

[@Broadtolove]

Hey Jean! Apologies for dropping this here I came across your KZbin channel and I would love to know you better. I'm guessing you must be an honest person, because I always found your comments to be so nice and respectful. If it's okay with you, I'd love to be friend but if it sounds odd or embarrassing in any way please don't embarrass me by replying. Have a wonderful day, and keep sharing

[@hehasrisen1990]

When someone travels to another country, u r in their law jurisdiction. The US doesn’t have say in other countries’ law consequences. Lesson, don’t ever travel to Russia or any other evil country cuz u never know what can happen there..sad

[@Broadtolove]

Hey HeHasRisen! Apologies for dropping this here I came across your KZbin channel and I would love to know you better. I'm guessing you must be an honest person, because I always found your comments to be so nice and respectful. If it's okay with you, I'd love to be friend but if it sounds odd or embarrassing in any way please don't embarrass me by replying. Have a wonderful day, and keep sharing

[@hahadarrie]

She was there in rush in a teaching capacity/role.

[@xlkarma8446]

I would love to see anyone making a derogatory or ignorant comment about this woman’s detainment spend one month in a Russian prison/colony. Once you do….then pass judgement.

[@what8562]

Would you also "love to see everyone making a comment" move to the RF, get a local boyfriend, and assault that boyfriend with a knife? To really get into the situation.

[@xlkarma8446]

@@what8562 what lol go away fool

[@xlkarma8446]

@@what8562 you’re an idiot

[@what8562]

@@xlkarma8446 I guess, it's a "no".

[@xlkarma8446]

@@what8562 bye Felicia

[@dominiquesweat2183]

my hearts bleeds for her and also for Paul as well. she should of also been listed of wrongful detained and put in the spot light. Thank God for her friend. i would of made sure that spotlight was on this all america's matters no matter what

[@raymondcook8364]

She pulled a knife on her roommate. She is not innocent.

[@CC-bh7mo]

She seems ungrateful. Be happy, you are free!! What more do you want?

[@dn1084]

Ungrateful she served her time she didn’t have black lesbian privilege. That’s a really dumb statement.

[@peni1641]

money

[@what8562]

@@dn1084 She did not serve her time. She was white, lived in Russia since 2017, spoke Russian. She was in significantly less danger.

[@nellidivina5280]

Her roommate must have bribed the police to have her arrested

[@beverleyreid563]

Why are westerners going to Russia?

[@luciboras]

You were in Russia not America and you were expecting American laws and democracy to work for you just because you are an American citizen. Plus you assaulted a person in Russia which is a crime and we dont know the full story. When you visit other countries respect and familiar with their laws and customs and behave accordingly. Just because you are American citizen you expecting certain entitlements? It may have worked 50+ years ago when America was the only country with nuclear weapons and at it econmic peak, now there are likely 10 countries with nuclear weapons and equally econmic influence. Dial down some of those American superior complex. It is complementary to have confidence in oneself, however too much of it can be a hindrance. In comparison with other country, America is a very young country and is flourishing rapidly. Some of it citizens are still behind the time, some are on their way and some are ahead. Then there are those that refusing or unable to move, in time they will die out. What said here is unpleasant.

[@kimking5928]

The weight of her crime is higher.

[@michaelwarzinski5078]

Happy for her that she is back, I understand her pain, but I would disagree with her that the US is totally to blame for her suffering in a russian penal colony. She also complains that Biden didn't somehow care about her, which is complete BS. I am sure if Trump were in office right now, she and Griner would still be sitting in a russian penal colony right now. I guarantee it! She like Griner made the choice and took the risk of being in Russia when no one told them they had to go there to begin with. Paul Whelan is different, he was there mandatorily for work. Hopefully both she and Griner become more aware and make better choices about where they go ouside of the U.S.

[@dewilew2137]

Griner was there for work too....did you think she was just touring Russia for her health? 🙄

[@michaelwarzinski5078]

@@dewilew2137 actually she wasn’t there for work because the WNBA did not force or mandate her to be there. She chose to go there to make more money at her own risk. She also had contraband which she should have been more careful since it is banned in Russia. It was completely optional for her to go or stay behind in the US. Again, nobody forced her to go. Nice try!

[@tinahammond4920]

True ,Trump didn't care

[@wiredup886]

​@@michaelwarzinski5078she was there for work dummy. your statement doesn't make sense, because the WNBA doesn't send you there, doesn't mean you're not going there for work idiot. Sometime it's better just to keep your mouth shut if you don't know what you're talking about. If I do construction work and I go to Russia for work, I'm working dummy.

[@michaelwarzinski5078]

@@wiredup886 I’m no dummy. She was there at her own risk for an optional GIG. She did NOT have to be there as it was not mandatory work by the WNBA moron. It was a GIG. Are you smart enough to know what a GIG is? That isn’t work. You seem to not understand that or anything I posted. Not sure as to why. Paul Whelan was there for mandatory work. He has been rotting there for over 3 years. You tell me who should have been let out first? This other woman went there looking for love. Again again again the US isn’t to blame for them being locked up when these two women went there on their own accord.

[@Oshun_KC]

I'm sure this whyte woman is appalled at the attention a black woman received. Two things can be true: You should've been declared wrongfully arrested; don't compare yourself to Griner. 🙄 15 months vs 9.5 YEARS.

[@lockgam]

Glad there both back, but your average person has to understand that anywhere in the world. Yours or your country's beliefs are out the door. Simple things might be illegal and just talking about illegal thinks in that place could be illegal. Gay, sex, politics and leaders, showing your ankles, ect. Your rights are always given to you, and things can change in a second, Look at Iran, in the 70's it was just like the U.S.A. and boom, overnight it's closer to Afganastan for the next 50 years. Iran is fighting for freedoms now so we'll see.

[@pbtv4985]

But it’s not fair!!!

[@jackangel4502]

Why was this woman even in Russia in the first place???

[@brooke9225]

She was living there for years with her Russian boyfriend and was working there as a teacher