Paul Whelan Is Back Home in Michigan

Former Marine imprisoned in Russia for four years

Reunited with family after spy-swap deal

Former U.S. Marine Paul Whelan was released from a Russian prison on December 8, 2022, after being held for four years on espionage charges. Whelan was swapped for Viktor Bout, a Russian arms dealer who was serving a 25-year sentence in the United States.

Whelan, 52, was arrested in Moscow in December 2018 and accused of spying for the United States. He was convicted of espionage in June 2020 and sentenced to 16 years in prison.

The United States has always maintained that Whelan was innocent and that he was being held hostage by Russia. Whelan's family and supporters campaigned tirelessly for his release.

On Thursday, December 8, Whelan was flown to Germany, where he met with U.S. officials. He then boarded a plane to Washington, D.C., where he was reunited with his family.

"I'm so glad to be home," Whelan said in a statement. "I want to thank President Biden and all the people who worked to secure my release.

Whelan's release is a major victory for the Biden administration. It comes just weeks after the United States and Russia agreed to resume nuclear arms talks.

The swap has been criticized by some, who argue that it rewarded Russia for its aggression against Ukraine. However, the Biden administration has defended the deal, saying that it was the best way to secure Whelan's release.

Whelan's release is a reminder of the importance of diplomacy and the power of perseverance. It is also a testament to the love and support of family and friends.