This letter is from William H. Taft, IV, State Department Legal Adviser, to Christophe Girod, the Head of Delegation of the International Committee for the Red Cross (ICRC) concerning the U.S. transfer of Russian nationals from Guantanamo to Russia. Mr. Girod expressed the ICRC's concern for the safety of the Russians to be repatriated to Russia. Mr. Taft’s letter stated that the U.S. received assurances from the Russian government that the repatriated detainees would not be persecuted or tortured upon their return. He notes that Russia is a signatory to the European Convention on Human Rights, the United Nations Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and also permits the ICRC to visit and inspect Russian prison facilities. He concludes with stating that “These decisions are made at senior levels through a process involving officials most familiar with international legal standards and obligations and the conditions in the countries concerned.” And giving his own assurances that the U.S. has reviewed the transfer and finds it appropriate and consistent with the international agreements the U.S. is party to.