Several social media users claimed on Wednesday that President Donald Trump is considering extraditing former Chief Medical Advisor and Biden's COVID-19 chief, Anthony Fauci, to Russia at the demand of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Donald Trump, who was sworn in as president earlier this week, has on several occasions pushed the idea of prosecuting his perceived political enemies since winning the November election. Fauci is reportedly on that list. Without mentioning Trump by name, Biden defended Fauci in a statement, saying, "Public servants are the lifeblood of our democracy. These individuals have served our nation with honor and distinction and do not deserve to be the targets of unjustified and politically motivated prosecutions.
BREAKING: Vladimir Putin is reportedly seeking to have Anthony Fauci EXTRADITED to Russia to face COVID-era ‘Crimes Against Humanity’ Charges as part of a Deal to end the War in Ukraine.
— Cillian (@CilComLFC) January 22, 2025
This is HUGE! pic.twitter.com/G8lhwbCbKr
A preemptive pardon is granted before the recipient Fauci, in this case has been convicted of a crime or even formally charged. It shields the individual from legal consequences related to specific actions or allegations.