Michigan Man Criticizes Putin Following His Release From Russian Imprisonment
In an unexpected turn of events, Paul Whelan, a resident of Novi, Michigan, expressed deep relief yet fierce criticism after being released from a Russian prison, where he had been held captive for more than five years on espionage charges.
Whelan’s journey as a held prisoner ended following a comprehensive prisoner swap involving two dozen people and intensive negotiations. Notably, this swap stands as the most significant of its kind in post-Soviet history. However, Whelan has firmly resolved not to revisit Russia.
Speaking about his experiences and grievances, Whelan said, “I’m looking forward to seeing my family down here and just recuperating from five years, seven months and five days of absolute nonsense. This is how Putin runs his government. This is how Putin runs his country“.
His pointed criticism towards Russian President Vladimir Putin comes in the wake of his arrest that occurred nearly six years back when he was in Russia to attend a wedding. Accused of being a spy, Whelan has been behind bars since 2018. Despite a lack of evident trials and evidence, Russian authorities had nonetheless sentenced him to 16 years in prison in 2020.
Following his sequential release alongside exonerees, Whelan, along with two other freed prisoners, landed in San Antonio, Texas. On their arrival, they underwent medical evaluations.
The Michigan resident expressed his heartfelt thanks to his family for maintaining sustained pressure on the U.S. Government over the years. Additionally, he expressed his gratitude to everyone who wished him well during his challenging times. On a lighter note, one of the first things he apparently wants to do in Texas is to treat himself with a steak.
There has not yet been any news on when Whelan might return to his native home in Michigan. His harrowing period of incarceration makes for a remarkable global story that underscores the significance of international diplomacy and human rights.
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
