The USA made a “serious offer” to Russia during the debate on the release of American Paul Whelan, who was sentenced to 16 years in prison in the Russian Federation. TV channel reports this CNN referring to the representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
As a State Department spokesperson told the TV station, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken “remains committed to bringing Paul home.”
According to him, the United States made it clear that Paul Whelan’s detention in the Russian Federation was outrageous and he should be released immediately.
“We have made a serious offer to Russia for Paul’s release and will not stop working on his case until he is reunited with his family,” a ministry spokesman said.
Paul Whelan spoke to CNN by phone and expressed confidence that efforts were being made to release him, but said he hoped he would not be forgotten among “other geopolitical issues.” He also added that he wants to talk to US President Joe Biden and “see if he will keep his word.”
Paul Whelan was detained in Moscow in December 2018. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison for espionage and sent to a colony in Mordovia to serve his sentence. Whelan denies any wrongdoing.
Earlier, Blinken chatting with Whelan approved The US wants him released.