Novi man brands Putin regime ‘absolute nonsense’
Coming home from Russia after five long years in prison, Paul Whelan of Novi, Michigan, expressed his relief and aired his grievances about his confinement. “I’m never going back there again,” he declared.
Whelan was ensnared in charges of espionage while attending a wedding in Russia. Despite no trial or evidence, he was sentenced to 16 years imprisonment in 2020. His release is due to the largest post-Soviet prisoner swap that involved months of negotiations and concessions.
Expressing his frustration, 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. This is how Putin runs his government. This is how Putin runs his country”.
Upon his arrival in San Antonio, Texas for medical evaluations, along with two other released prisoners, Whelan conveyed his gratitude to his family for continuously pressuring the U.S. government to secure his release and to all who wished him well. He also shared that one of the first things he plans to do while in Texas is to have a steak.
As of now, there is no information on when he might return to Michigan.
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.
