In a new joint resolution brought forward by both Senate leaders, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) called for the immediate and unconditional release of Ryan Corbett, the Dansville man whom the Taliban wrongfully detained in Afghanistan on August 10, 2022.
According to Senator Schumer, Corbett has been unjustly detained by the Taliban for over 600 days. Ryan traveled to Afghanistan to renew his visa and pay the local staff of his non-profit when he was taken without cause, explanation, or any semblance of due process. Ryan’s parents in Kentucky are anxiously awaiting the return of their son, and his wife, Anna, has been relentlessly advocating for his release to reunite Ryan with his family and children in Dansville, as soon as possible.
Ryan and his family left Afghanistan when American forces withdrew in 2021. He returned a year later to salvage what was left of his business and pay his employees when he was unlawfully detained. Congresswoman Claudia Tenney says Corbett is being held in a basement cell without regular access to a bathroom, sunlight, or medical care. Other Westerners who have been released from the prison where Ryan is being held report that he is in deteriorating health. Ryan’s family has been fighting for his release in silence but decided to go public because of fears for his life.
Tenney has already introduced the Ryan Corbett Resolution, calling for his immediate release.
A GoFundMe page has been set up by the family to pay for travel expenses related to going back and forth to Washington, D.C.
The Corbett family has created a website, www.freeryancorbett.com, where visitors can learn more about their family and Ryan’s situation.