NOVI, MI – After experiencing more than five years of imprisonment in Russia, Novi local Paul Whelan is back on American soil. Whelan, who was released as part of the largest prisoner swap in post-Soviet history, made his feelings about Russia and its President, Vladimir Putin, clear.
“I’m never going back there again,” Whelan stated decisively after touchdown in the U.S. “This is how Putin runs his government. This is how Putin runs his country.”
Whelan’s journey started almost six years ago when he travelled to Russia for a wedding. His trip took an unexpected turn when he was arrested on espionage charges and sentenced to 16 years in prison. The charges came without a trial or evidence, placing Whelan in a precarious situation.
Thursday, August 1, Whelan along with two other freed prisoners arrived in San Antonio, Texas for medical evaluations. The release comes off as a relief not just for Whelan after the lengthy imprisonment, but also for his family who has been relentlessly pressuring the U.S government for his release.
Expressing his gratitude, Whelan said, “Looking forward to seeing my family down here and just recuperating from five years, seven months and five days of just absolute nonsense.”
While Whelan gets accustomed to the idea of freedom, he also has a simple wish of wanting to enjoy a steak in Texas. There isn’t any word about when he will return to Michigan yet.
Committed to keeping everyone informed, we will follow up on Paul Whelan’s journey as it unfolds.
