American citizen Paul Whelan has been in Russian custody for over 2,000 days, a significant milestone in his ongoing ordeal. In an exclusive interview with CNN, Whelan expressed his disbelief at the amount of time he has spent behind bars for a crime he insists he did not commit. He called on the Biden administration to take decisive action to secure his release, as well as that of fellow detainee Evan Gershkovich.
Whelan emphasized the impact of his extended detention, comparing it to the duration of a university degree, high school, or military service. Despite being declared wrongfully detained by the US State Department, Whelan was sentenced to 16 years in prison on espionage charges in 2020.
He called for a stronger response from the US government, urging actions that would force the Kremlin to take notice and negotiate the release of American detainees. Whelan highlighted the need for accountability to prevent further wrongful detentions of individuals like Trevor Reed, Brittney Griner, and others.
As Gershkovich’s trial approaches, Whelan speculated on the significance of the upcoming legal proceedings. He expressed concern over the lack of a fair judicial system in Russia, where individuals are often presumed guilty before trial.
State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller reiterated the government’s commitment to bringing Whelan and Gershkovich home, emphasizing the priority placed on their release. Despite the challenges faced in securing their freedom, efforts are ongoing to resolve the situation.
With no end in sight to his captivity, Whelan continues to endure harsh conditions in a remote prison camp in Mordovia. He described the environment as dusty, dirty, and lacking basic necessities like proper food and medical care. Whelan’s plea for justice and freedom resonates as he marks another day in Russian custody, hopeful for a resolution to his prolonged ordeal.
