The family of Paul Whelan released a statement on Thursday expressing gratitude for his release after being held in Russian custody for 2,043 days. Whelan, a former U.S. Marine, was wrongfully detained by Russian authorities for over five years before his recent freedom.
The family thanked the United States government, specifically President Biden, Secretary of State Blinken, and National Security Advisor Sullivan, for their efforts in securing Whelan's release. The statement highlighted the collaborative engagement between the U.S. and the Russian Federation that led to the possibility of Whelan's freedom.
Whelan's release was part of a significant exchange of political prisoners and journalists involving the United States and Germany. The U.S. State Department confirmed that Whelan's detention was unjust, and he had been sentenced to 16 years in prison on espionage-related charges that both he and the U.S. government disputed.
The family described Whelan's case as that of an American in peril, used as a pawn by the Russian Federation in their questionable tactics to extract concessions. Whelan, a corporate security executive from Michigan, had been caught in a complex international situation since his arrest in December 2018.
After enduring years of uncertainty and legal battles, Whelan's release marks a significant moment for his family and supporters. The family's statement reflects relief and appreciation for the efforts that led to Whelan's return to freedom after a long and challenging ordeal.
