In a significant diplomatic victory for the United States, Marc Fogel, an American citizen detained in Russia for three and a half years, has been released and is now on his way home. This marks the latest success in the Trump administration’s efforts to bring back detained Americans worldwide.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio, joined by U.S. Special Envoy for Hostages nominee Adam Boehler, spoke with Fox News’ Sean Hannity to discuss the details behind Fogel’s release and broader foreign policy initiatives undertaken by the administration.
A Diplomatic Breakthrough
Secretary Rubio credited President Donald Trump’s strong leadership for securing Fogel’s release. “This is the tenth American we’ve brought home in just three weeks since President Trump returned to the White House,” Rubio stated. He emphasized that the Biden administration had failed to prioritize Fogel’s case and that it was Trump’s direct engagement that led to his freedom.
Senior Advisor Steve Witkoff reportedly engaged in a three-and-a-half-hour meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin to finalize the details of Fogel’s release. Notably, Russia received no concessions in return, underscoring the administration’s diplomatic strength.
Boehler confirmed that another American is set to be released on February 13, further cementing Trump’s commitment to securing the freedom of U.S. citizens held abroad. “This is another in a stream of unilateral hostage releases,” Boehler noted, without disclosing further details to ensure the safety of those involved.
The Geopolitical Landscape and Trump’s Strength on the World Stage
The conversation also shifted to broader geopolitical developments, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Rubio noted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s openness to a potential deal, highlighting the role of strong U.S. leadership in pushing for peace. “We may not like some of the leaders we deal with, but strong leaders respect strength. That’s what we now have in the White House,” he remarked.
The Secretary of State also addressed President Trump’s recent meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah, discussing a comprehensive plan for rebuilding Gaza while demilitarizing militant groups in the region. Trump set a firm deadline of noon on February 15 for Hamas to release all hostages, warning of severe consequences if they fail to comply.
U.S.-Panama Relations and National Security Priorities
The discussion expanded to include the Panama Canal and China’s growing influence in the region. Rubio expressed confidence in reaching a favorable agreement with Panama to reduce Chinese involvement in the canal’s operations.
“The President made it clear: the Panama Canal belongs to Panama, not China,” he asserted. He also highlighted Panama’s recent withdrawal from China’s Belt and Road Initiative as a positive step toward strengthening U.S.-Panama relations and protecting American strategic interests.
A Renewed Commitment to Hostage Recovery
Boehler provided insight into the broader efforts to repatriate American hostages worldwide. He estimated that over 100 U.S. citizens are wrongfully detained abroad, with approximately 6,000 Americans currently in foreign jails. While not all are hostages, the administration remains committed to bringing home those unjustly held.
The interview concluded with Hannity acknowledging the administration’s efforts. “An American is coming home safe tonight, and another tomorrow. This is phenomenal news,” he said, thanking Rubio, Boehler, and others involved in the negotiations.
As Marc Fogel arrives back on American soil, his release serves as a powerful testament to the administration’s commitment to protecting its citizens and reinforcing U.S. strength on the global stage.