Speculation on MSNBC from Malcolm Nance is that the charges may or may not be trumped up, and that she is essentially a political hostage. Being Black, gay, and female makes her a perfect propaganda target for Putin and his aggressive White Supremacy and anti-gay politics.
In possibly related new, the State Department is calling for all Americans to leave Russia NOW.
Brittney Griner arrested
The Customs Service said that its officials had detained a U.S. player who had won two Olympic gold medals, but did not release her name. Griner competed for the U.S. Women's Basketball team in 2016 and 2021.
Russian news agency TASS later reported that it was Griner after confirmation from law enforcement.
The Customs Service said in its statement that it had opened a criminal case into the transportation of drugs and that the player had been detained amid an investigation.
Transportation of drugs in Russia can result in a sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
Griner, like many other WNBA players compete in Russia during the off season where they can often obtain more lucrative contracts. Griner has played for UMMC Ekaterinburg for several years, according to the Times.
US State Department Urges US Citizens to leave immediately — Forbes