Michigan Man Criticizes Putin Following His Release From Russian Imprisonment
In an unexpected turn of events, Paul Whelan, a resident of Novi, Michigan, expressed deep relief yet fierce criticism after being released from a Russian prison, where he had been held captive for more than five years on espionage charges.
Whelan’s journey as a held prisoner ended following a comprehensive prisoner swap involving two dozen people and intensive negotiations. Notably, this swap stands as the most significant of its kind in post-Soviet history. However, Whelan has firmly resolved not to revisit Russia.
Speaking about his experiences and grievances, Whelan said, “I’m looking forward to seeing my family down here and just recuperating from five years, seven months and five days of absolute nonsense. This is how Putin runs his government. This is how Putin runs his country“.
His pointed criticism towards Russian President Vladimir Putin comes in the wake of his arrest that occurred nearly six years back when he was in Russia to attend a wedding. Accused of being a spy, Whelan has been behind bars since 2018. Despite a lack of evident trials and evidence, Russian authorities had nonetheless sentenced him to 16 years in prison in 2020.
Following his sequential release alongside exonerees, Whelan, along with two other freed prisoners, landed in San Antonio, Texas. On their arrival, they underwent medical evaluations.
The Michigan resident expressed his heartfelt thanks to his family for maintaining sustained pressure on the U.S. Government over the years. Additionally, he expressed his gratitude to everyone who wished him well during his challenging times. On a lighter note, one of the first things he apparently wants to do in Texas is to treat himself with a steak.
There has not yet been any news on when Whelan might return to his native home in Michigan. His harrowing period of incarceration makes for a remarkable global story that underscores the significance of international diplomacy and human rights.
