An American citizen, Robert Woodland, imprisoned in Russia on drug charges, has had his sentence reduced, according to reports.

His lawyer, Stanislav Kshevitsky, announced on Tuesday that Woodland’s original sentence of 12.5 years has been shortened to 9.5 years.

The reason for the sentence reduction remains unclear. A spokesperson told Digital that the U.S. embassy in Russia is actively monitoring the situation, emphasizing the State Department’s commitment to the safety and security of Americans abroad.

Woodland’s conviction stemmed from an arrest in July of last year, where he was found in possession of 50 grams of mephedrone and subsequently found guilty of attempting to sell drugs, Reuters reported, citing information from prosecutors.

Woodland, born in Russia in 1991, was adopted by American parents at the age of two. He reportedly returned to Russia at 26 to meet his biological mother.

He was arrested in Russia in January 2024.

According to Reuters, Kshevitsky stated that Woodland has admitted partial guilt in the matter.

Despite recent prisoner exchanges involving Russia, including those during the Trump administration, Woodland remains in Russian custody.

Russian-American ballerina Ksenia Karelina, who was detained in Russia for over a year, was released earlier this month in a prisoner swap.

Karelina received a 12-year sentence in a Russian penal colony after pleading guilty to treason for a $51.80 donation to a in early 2024.

In February, American history teacher Marc Fogel, detained in Russia since 2021, was returned to the U.S. with assistance from Trump.

’ Jasmine Baehr, Elizabeth Pritchett and Alex Hogan contributed to this report. 

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