*Moscow*: As confirmed by officials Monday, the person of US citizenship detained in Moscow on drug trafficking charges was released a few days ahead of the US and Russia high-level meetings.
David Markham, 34, a Texas-born businessman, was arrested in October 2024 at Sheremetyevo International Airport, Moscow, for possession of a “substantial quantity” of an illicit substance. He had been doing business in Moscow for several years but claimed that he didn t recognize any illegal item in his bag.
After many months of pretrial detention, suddenly Markham was freed on a Sunday and transferred under escort to the U.S. Embassy in Moscow. The reason for his release wasn’t immediately disclosed by Russian officials but sources familiar with the process say it likely relates to the upcoming Washington-Moscow negotiations over security and geopolitical issues.
The US Secretary of State, Mr. Antony Blinken, endorsed the news by saying,
*”We are relieved that David Markham has been released and is now in the care of U.S. officials. We will continue to work to ensure the fair treatment of all Americans detained abroad.”
Although Russian officials have yet to formally drop the charges against Markham, some analysts believe that his release is a goodwill gesture against a scheduled round of talks this week. Ties between the two countries have not improved, with existential conflicts and diplomatic confrontations playing out over Ukraine, cybersecurity, and arms control.
One of the Kremlin representatives offered the comments regarding Markham’s discharge but would not speculate about political motivations; instead, they reiterated Moscow’s position regarding crimes involving narcotics.
“Russian law is quite definite about drug offenses, and our legal system functions independently. All questions regarding this case are best addressed to the appropriate authorities.”
Markham’s family, who were pushing for his release, also said thanks in a statement. *”This has been an exceptionally difficult time for our family, but we are so thrilled that David is finally safe. We thank the many people who worked so hard to bring him home.
Though his return to the United States is not certain, legal analysts indicated that Markham might still face more proceedings in absentia by Russian prosecutors, should they choose to press their case.
Markham’s release comes as the U.S. continues lobbying for the release of other Americans held in Russia, including journalist Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelan, who were both charged with espionage.