Paul Whelan, the former US Marine, was released from Russian prison after spending 5 years on suspicion of spying. He was 54 years old in 2020 when he was sentenced to the 16-years in prison.
The US government tried everything for his release, and the last two prisoner swap had left him waiting. Paul Whelan and 15 other prisoners were released from Russian prison in 2024.
The US government gave reason for Paul Whelan's wrongful detention.
Hers is everything about Paul Whelan and his life in a Russian prison.
Who is Paul Whelan?
Paul Whelan is a former US Marine, but he holds citizenship in four countries: the US, the UK, Ireland, and Canada.
He was born on 5th March 1970 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. His parents were of Irish and British heritage. He studied at Huron High School and Northern Michigan University.
In 1990, he started his career as a police officer in Michigan. Between 2001 and 2016, he worked for the Kelly Services staffing company.
He joined the US Marines in 2003 but was court-martialed in 2008 based on misconduct.
Paul Whelan and Russian Prison:
In 2018, Paul Whelan was detained by Russia's Federal Security Service. They accused him of spying. Whelan said that his Russian friend framed him.
In 2020, Paul Whelan was sentenced to 16 years in prison for spying.
On 1st August 2024, Paul Whelan was released from a Russian prison under a prisoner swap.
Paul Whelan's Interview with Face the Nation:
Paul Whelan gave his first interview to Face the Nation. He explained how he was framed in Russia.
His company claimed his trip to Russia was personal, but Mr. Whelan said his company paid for his visa, and he was working for the company until the day he was arrested.
Paul Whelan also spent 5 days in solitary confinement before his release.
Conclusion:
Paul Whelan is a former US marine who was arrested in Russia on espionage charges and released in August 2024.
He is now telling his story of the days he spent in Russian prison.
Paul also credits Brittney Grinner for helping him get released. The Biden administration also worked and tried hard for his release from Russian prison.
Paul Whelan FAQs:
Is Paul Whelan married?
No.
Why was Paul Whelan in Russia?
He was on a business trip.
When was Paul Whelan arrested in Russia?
He was arrested on 28th December 2018 in Moscow.
How long was Paul Whelan in Jail?
He spent 5 years in Russian prison.
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