President Biden mentioned he tried to convey Whelan again dwelling, too, however mentioned Russia is treating his case in a different way.
WASHINGTON — WNBA star and Houston native Brittney Griner has been released in a prisoner swap with Russia. It was a one-to-one swap, because the U.S. released Russian arms supplier Viktor Bout in change.
In the months main as much as Griner’s launch, there have been studies that American Paul Whelan would even be released, however he was not. Whelan had been held in Russia since 2018 on an espionage cost.
President Biden addressed Whelan’s detention after news broke of Griner’s launch, saying that the White House stays dedicated to bringing him dwelling.
“We’ve not forgotten about Paul Whelan, who’s been unjustly detained in Russia for years,” the president mentioned in an handle shortly after news of Griner’s launch broke. “This was not a selection of which American to convey dwelling. We introduced dwelling Trevor Reed after we had the possibility earlier this yr. Sadly, for illegitimate causes, Russia is treating Paul’s case in a different way than Brittney’s.“
Whelan, a company safety govt from Michigan, was sentenced in 2020 to 16 years in jail on espionage prices. He and his household have vigorously asserted his innocence. The U.S. authorities has denounced the costs as false. He and his household have vigorously asserted his innocence. The U.S. authorities has denounced the costs as false.
“As the family member of a Russian hostage, I can literally only imagine the joy she will have, being reunited with her loved ones, and in time for the holidays,” David Whelan, Paul’s brother, mentioned in an announcement. “There is not any better success than for a wrongful detainee to be freed and for them to go dwelling.”
David Whelan additionally mentioned he was “so glad” for Griner’s launch but additionally upset for his household. He credited the White House with giving the Whelan household advance discover and mentioned he didn’t fault officers for making the deal.
“The Biden Administration made the right decision to bring Ms. Griner home, and to make the deal that was possible, rather than waiting for one that wasn’t going to happen,” he mentioned.
Biden mentioned he’s retaining in shut contact with Whelan’s household and mentioned they’re not giving up and gained’t ever surrender.
“My thoughts and prayers are with them today,” Biden added. “They must have such mixed emotions today and we’ll keep negotiating in good faith for Paul’s release. I guarantee that. I say that to the family. I guarantee you. I urge Russia to do the same to ensure Paul’s health and humane treatment are maintained until we are able to bring them home.”
Brittney Griner’s spouse, Cherelle, additionally addressed Whelan’s detention.
“BG and I will remain committed to the work of getting every American home, including Paul, whose family is in our hearts today,” she mentioned.
story by Source link