It looks like Dennis Rodman will no longer be taking the trip to Russia to try to help bring Brittney Griner home. According to ABC News, State Department spokesperson, Ned Price, said during a press briefing on Monday that if the former NBA baller did travel to Russia,

“He would not be traveling on behalf of the U.S. government,” said Ned.

“We believe that anything other than negotiating further through the established channel is likely to complicate and hinder those release efforts.” If you recall, on Saturday, Dennis spoke with NBC News advising, “I got permission to go to Russia to help that girl. I’m trying to go this week.”

Following the backlash from the U.S. government, Dennis will no longer travel to Russia. The hall of famer has previously sought to impact U.S. foreign policy as an informal diplomat during heated U.S. relations with North Korea. Reports stated in June 2018, Dennis traveled to Singapore prior to President Donald Trump’s historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Kim is a big Chicago Bulls fan, Dennis’ former team.

While the hall of famer did not meet with the dictator, whom he considers a “friend,” he was one of a few Americans who met with him in Pyongyang in the past. Even though Dennis is adhering to the U.S. government’s recommendation about not traveling to Russia, he doesn’t need permission from the U.S. to travel to Russia, but a visa is required from Moscow to travel to the country.

Currently, the State Department is strongly discouraging American citizens from traveling to Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine, issuing a “Level 4-Do Not Travel” advisory that was most recently updated on Aug. 15. Roommates, what are your thoughts on this situation? Drop a comment and let us know!