Washington DC [US], February 12 (HBTV): Marc Fogel, an American teacher who was held in Russia for over three years, has returned to the United States following a negotiated exchange between Moscow and Washington.

Fogel, draped in an American flag, arrived at the White House, where he was greeted by US President Donald Trump. The president stated that it was ‘an honour to have played a small role’ in securing Fogel’s freedom.

‘Thank you all, and I love our country. I'm so happy to be back here, and I wish I could articulate it better,’ Fogel said, appearing overwhelmed with emotion as he spoke in the Diplomatic Reception Room, according to CNN.

In a statement released on Tuesday, National Security Advisor Mike Waltz said that President Trump, along with Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, had successfully negotiated the exchange for Fogel.

The statement also highlighted President Trump's ongoing efforts to secure the release of detained Americans worldwide.

‘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. 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,’ the statement read.

‘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. By tonight, Marc Fogel will be on American soil and reunited with his family and loved ones, thanks to President Trump's leadership,’ it added.

The White House also announced Fogel’s return on X, posting: ‘Marc Fogel is back!!! Promises made, promises kept!!!’   

(ANI)