Elizabeth Whelan, the sister of Paul Whelan, a former U.S. Marine wrongfully imprisoned in Russia, met with President Biden on Wednesday to discuss ongoing efforts to secure his release. The meeting, which also included National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, took place after Russia rejected the latest deal to bring Whelan home. The White House released a statement confirming the meeting and highlighting President Biden’s personal engagement in securing the release of American hostages and wrongfully detained individuals worldwide.
Paul Whelan has been imprisoned in Russia since December 2018 on espionage-related charges that both he and the U.S. government deny. Despite the rejection of a recent proposal by Russia, the U.S. State Department continues its efforts to negotiate Whelan’s release. Whelan’s case gained attention in November when he was attacked by a fellow prisoner while in a labor camp.
During his annual press conference, Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed calls for Whelan’s release, stating that an agreement must be mutually acceptable to both parties. However, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov blamed the White House for leaks to U.S. media, suggesting that such publicity was hindering negotiations.
The meeting between President Biden and Elizabeth Whelan underscores the administration’s commitment to resolving cases of wrongfully detained Americans. The White House expressed hope for a solution but emphasized the need for the American side to hear Russia’s perspective and make an appropriate decision.
The case of Paul Whelan is not an isolated incident. Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained in March 2023 on espionage charges, also remains in custody. The Moscow court recently denied Gershkovich’s appeal for pre-trial release, extending his detention until at least January 30, 2024.
The U.S. government has previously exchanged Russian prisoners for detained Americans, including WNBA star Brittney Griner. However, negotiations in these cases can be complex and require mutual agreement.
The meeting between President Biden and Elizabeth Whelan serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in securing the release of American citizens wrongfully detained abroad. The Biden administration continues to prioritize these efforts and engage in dialogue with Russia, seeking a resolution that benefits both sides.
