Did Paul Whelan Get Released

Michigan Man Paul Whelan Released from Russian Prison

Prisoner Exchange

Paul Whelan, a Michigan native, has been released from Russian prison after spending more than five years in custody. Whelan was released on Thursday as part of the biggest prisoner exchange of its kind, involving seven nations and 24 people.

Background

Whelan, a former U.S. Marine, was arrested in Russia in 2018 on espionage charges. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison in 2020. Whelan has consistently denied the charges and his family has maintained his innocence.

Exchange Details

The prisoner exchange was brokered by the United Arab Emirates. In exchange for Whelan's release, Russia received Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout, who was serving a 25-year sentence in the United States. The exchange also included the release of U.S. basketball star Brittney Griner.

Reaction

The release of Whelan has been met with positive reactions from both the U.S. and Russian governments. U.S. President Joe Biden welcomed Whelan's release and thanked the UAE for their role in the exchange. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed satisfaction with the outcome and said it marked "a significant step" in relations between the two countries.